Twentieth century artist Arman, born in France, began his work as a painter, but would quickly go on to revolutionize the world of sculpture. He pioneered the concept of ‘accumulations’, or sculptures comprised of several like objects precisely arranged and often welded together. He also created more erratic sculptures known as ‘poubelles’ – the French word for garbage – that were comprised of disorganized collections of debris. After coming to the United States, he began to retool his practice, experimenting with the concept of creation resulting from destruction. A common and recognizable thread in his work is his use of musical instruments in many of his works.
