Isamu Noguchi

Towards a Reintegration of the Arts

In the creation and existence of a piece of sculpture, individual possession has less significance than public enjoyment. Without this purpose, the very meaning of sculpture is in question. By sculpture we mean those plastic and spatial relationships which define a moment of personal existence and illumine the environment of our aspirations. Our knowledge of this definition is found in the temple sculpture of the past. There the forms, communal, emotional, and mystic in character, fulfill its larger purpose. It is apparent, therefore, that the function of sculpture, as here defined, is more than merely the decoration of architecture, or the treasure of museums. Both of these outlets, worthy through they may be, are an extension in kind of private ownership. It is not necessary to draw here on the decline of the third, the original and most potent outlet, religion, In the technological order alive today, another channel must be opened for sculpture, if that art is to fulfill its larger purpose.