While we are in Tuscany, we have plans to visit the Gori Collection, where they have seven artworks by Robert Morris. Robert Morris began working during the Minimalist, Process Art, and Earth Art movements in the 60s and 70s. He both contributes to how we understand them and is making something totally different. His work challenges the myth of self-expression (like other Minimalist artists), but values the effect of time and place.  For example, L-Beams is a sculpture that should be installed in a different arrangement every time it is exhibited. And “The Wedges,” discussed in the video above, were originally designed to be rearranged by viewers.

Rearranging plywood boxes of any shape is right up our alley. As is Robert Morris’ 1971 installation Bodyspacemotionthings. He created a series of beams, rollers, tunnels and ramps for people to climb on for the Tate Museum. It originally only lasted four days because of safety concerns. I love this description of the 1971 installation and the effect of adults on a playground playing (via Playscapes):

‘Some of the 1,500 visitors became so intoxicated by [the] opportunities that they went around “jumping and screaming” to quote the exhibitions keeper, Mr Michael Compton. They went berserk on the giant see-saws, and they loosened the boards on other exhibits by trampling on them … “It was just a case of exceptionally exuberant or energetic participation,” Mr Compton said tolerantly’

In 2009 Tate Modern made a “safer” version for visitors to play on as you can see in this video tour below.

The Robert Morris that you have probably seen most often in museums are his felt works. The last time I saw one was at the ICA in Boston. These installations and wall pieces reflect his interest in “indeterminacy,” and what it means to make an object that also makes itself, sort of like parenting. Every day I parent, I ask myself “Who is in control here?” or “Who is making who?” Although my children are technically still at the “moldable” age, they have strong, independent plans and ideas for how everything should go.

I’m looking forward to seeing the Robert Morris installations and earthworks in Italy soon. Follow our family vacation on Instagram or Twitter. I’ll be posting longer reviews about the museums and travel arrangements following the trip or as time permits from Europe.