Dead Furrow

Dead Furrow is one of a series of Viewing Stations that Oppenheim proposed in 1967. “Dead furrow” refers to a type of trench left after plowing a field, which Oppenheim replicates here with PVC pipe. Visitors are encouraged to climb the sculpture’s stairs, allowing the work to become, as Oppenheim termed it, “a structure for viewing land.” As the artist said in 1971, “I think that this body of work was in part evidence of how strong the urge was to enlarge . . . the spectrum of the art activity and the use of art.” Realized in 1967 as drawing, scale model, and an indoor structure for viewing a gallery space, the 2016 version, authorized by the artist’s estate, follows Oppenheim’s proposed scale for outdoor installation.

1967/2016. Wood surfaced with organic pigment, PVC pipe.

Fabricated at Storm King Art Center.

10 x 40 x 35' (3 x 12.2 x 10.7 m)