Melvin Edwards

Edwards, Mel

American, 1937 - 2026

Explore selected works

The sculpture is an abstract assembly of metal components set against a circular base. It is constructed from dark, weathered metal, likely iron or bronze. The various elements of the sculpture are intricately connected, with defined, angular shapes creating a complex structure. The piece is mounted on a wall, with its circular form extending outward slightly. The surface of the metal has a textured, aged quality, adding depth and contrast to the overall piece, and is characterized by its metallic sheen and patina. The sculpture integrates both flat and protruding shapes, creating a layered effect.
Melvin Edwards, For Emilio Cruz, 2005, welded steel, Patrons' Permanent Fund, 2022.3.3

For Emilio Cruz

Melvin Edwards · 2005 · welded steel ·  Accession ID  2022.3.3

The image contains large, bold, black shapes with rounded and angular edges on a lighter background. The arrangement creates a complex pattern similar to a jigsaw puzzle or oversized, deconstructed letters scattered across the canvas. The interplay of dark and light areas suggests horseshoes or parts of circular machinery, but the image remains non-representational.
Melvin Edwards, Pat Almonrode, Dieu Donné Papermill, Inc., Cocovari in Piscataway, 2000, black cotton pulp pressed on wove linen paper, Corcoran Collection (Museum Purchase, Firestone Contemporary Art Fund), 2015.19.3241

Cocovari in Piscataway

Melvin Edwards, Pat Almonrode, Dieu Donné Papermill, Inc. · 2000 · black cotton pulp pressed on wove linen paper ·  Accession ID  2015.19.3241

The image displays thick black lines and curves forming interconnected looping shapes resembling twisting ropes or chains, with sections resembling hooks or stylized lettering. The abstract artwork may evoke the image of a contorted hand or a complex mechanical arm. The arrangement and thickness of the lines convey a dynamic and energetic feel, suggesting interlocked pieces of a puzzle.
Melvin Edwards, Untitled, 1995, printed letterpress on Somerset paper, Gift of Werner H. and Sarah-Ann Kramarsky, 2001.143.24

Untitled

Melvin Edwards · 1995 · printed letterpress on Somerset paper ·  Accession ID  2001.143.24

The sculpture is an abstract assemblage of metal objects and components. It includes a centrally mounted circular base with chains, metal bars, and rusty rods intersecting. The piece is made of weathered metal in brown and rust tones, creating an industrial look. The wall-mounted sculpture has three-dimensional depth.
Melvin Edwards, Siempre Gilberto de la Nuez, 1994, welded steel, Patrons' Permanent Fund, 2022.3.1

Siempre Gilberto de la Nuez

Melvin Edwards · 1994 · welded steel ·  Accession ID  2022.3.1

The sculpture is made of a combination of twisted and curved metal elements. It has a rusty brown color and appears to have a central thick, rectangular block with a twisted iron rod protruding from it, forming intricate loops and shapes. The material has a rough texture due to oxidation, and it is mounted against a plain, light-colored wall. The piece projects outward, offering a three-dimensional aspect with intricate and rugged shapes and contours.
Melvin Edwards, All Most, 1985, welded steel, Patrons' Permanent Fund, 2022.3.2

All Most

Melvin Edwards · 1985 · welded steel ·  Accession ID  2022.3.2

The sculpture is an assemblage of metal objects, including a spade or shovel head, pickaxe, chains, and a large nail. The components are crafted together to form a single piece mounted on a wall. The sculpture is primarily composed of rusted iron, giving it an industrial appearance with a brownish hue. It is three-dimensional and extends outward from its base, creating a substantial, protruding structure when viewed head-on. Each element is distinct but unified through the cohesive material and rustic aesthetic.
Melvin Edwards, Tayali Ever Ready (Homage to Henry Tayali), 1981/1986/1988, welded steel, Patrons' Permanent Fund, 2022.3.4

Tayali Ever Ready (Homage to Henry Tayali)

Melvin Edwards · 1981/1986/1988 · welded steel ·  Accession ID  2022.3.4