mid career work

Richards' mastery of the direct processes of constructing with steel and his aversion to planning sculpture now fueled true improvisation. He began exploiting the shapes of industrial scrap metal for their variety and innuendo, and exposing his methods of production. Color gave nuance to this rich vocabulary. He made many large works. They are at once monumental and intimate, always of human scale.

 
 

wall reliefs

Untitled Wall Relief #15, 1987 #15
26” x 18.5” x 16”
mild steel; oil enamel
Collection: Margaret M. Bridwell Art Library
University of Louisville

freestanding

Mallia XVII
47” x 46.25” x 28.5”
mild steel; gun blue, alkyd enamel
1986