Less known are the sculptures completed on commission, such as the Rotterdam Bouwcentrum's Wall Relief (1955) close to the Central Station, Moore's only work in brick. This exhibition will highlight Henry Moore's sculptures and their relation to architecture. The Reclining Figure is a recurrent theme in his work, which is characterised by organic, natural forms. Moore had strong ties with nature, which served as a source of inspiration. He collected all kinds of objects in his studio, such as bones, rocks and even an elephant's skull.
Big retrospective of the work of Henry Moore
As Moore's sculptures were increasingly being placed in an urban context, he began numerous studies combining his female figures with such architectural elements as steps, benches and walls. His design changed in response to his commissions for works in public spaces and his collaboration with architects. The exhibition will show different construction projects, such as Moore's co-operation with architect Michael Rosenauer for the Time/Life building in London's Bond Street and with Marcel Breuer for the UNESCO head office in Paris. The exhibition also considers his Wall Relief in Rotterdam, a unique feature of his oeuvre, which had a major impact on Moore's perception of the balance between sculpture and architecture.
This exhibition is composed exclusively for the Kunsthal in cooperation with The Henry Moore Foundation and comprises works from the collections of the British Museum, the Tate, the Victoria & Albert Museum, the artist's estate and private collections.
The NAI's collection includes many of Moore's photographs and letters concerning the Wall Relief in the modest archive of J.W.C Boks (1904-1986): http://www.nai.nl/e/collection/news/2006/0610
About your visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Skip listThe Kunsthal is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs. The Kunsthal Café opens half an hour earlier, so you can visit from 9:30 hrs until half an hour after closing time. Check the current opening hours.
Yes, you need to book a ticket with a start time in advance. This also applies if you have a Museum card, Rotterdam pass, or VriendenLoterij VIP Card. This way, you are guaranteed admission and we can ensure that your visit is as pleasant as possible. Book your start time.
Yes, with an online ticket, you can visit all the exhibitions that are on display on the date of your visit. You can also stay as long as you like. You are welcome at the Kunsthal from your designated start time until closing time. Book your start time.
In de Kunsthal Rotterdam zijn altijd meerdere wisselende en contrastrijke tentoonstellingen tegelijk te zien. Een volledig overzicht van alle actuele tentoonstellingen vind je op de tentoonstellingspagina.