Michael Grab’s Balancing Sculptures

I’ve admired the work of Andy Goldsworthy for a fair number of years now, and when I came across the images of Michael Grab, and discovered that he also creates his sculptures by balancing one form on the other, and using gravity and weight as the ‘glue’, then I thought I’d take a closer look.

I get an odd mix of feelings when I look at his work. On one hand there is the wonderful feeling of serenity and calm to the pieces standing like a collection of stone totem poles or Easter Island sculptures. This plays alongside an inner feeling of unease or disbelief that the whole formation won’t come crashing down at any minute. Perhaps they’re meant to have a transience to them and exist only in the moment of us seeing them.

Michael says ‘As far as I know, many cultures from across the globe have practiced the art of balancing rocks for several centuries, if not longer. Rocks are among the oldest of primitive tools. In balance, their purposes range from marking human presence to giving thanks to meditative nature art. Over the past few years of practicing rock balance, simple curiosity has evolved into therapeutic ritual, ultimately nurturing meditative presence, mental well-being, and artistry of design. Alongside the art, setting rocks into balance has also become a way of showing appreciation, offering thanksgiving, and inducing meditation.’

The mix of stone and water works so well, and when many forms appear assembled together, then a magical space is created.

These oddly remind me of Henry Moore’s King and Queen sculpture, what a relaxing way to spend your days.

All images Copyright of Michael Grab and Gravity Glue.