Theodore Jacob Roszak (1907-1981)

Describing Theodore Roszak's constructions from 1937-43, H.H. Arnason explains, "Here we have the uncompromising concentration on geometric abstraction, the attempt at elimination of association, subject matter, or content other than that involved in the form itself, which marks the extreme constructivist position." (Theodore Roszak, exhibition catalogue, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 1956, p. 17) As epitomized by the present example, which appears to incorporate elements of Joseph Cornell's boxes and Jean Arp's biomorphic shapes, Arnason continues, "A second quality which characterizes them, it seems to me, is their actual approximation to beautiful, if at times strange, machines. One has a feeling about them that if a button is pressed energetic action will ensue. Also to be noted is the variety of shapes the artist explores within the non-objective medium, shapes which at times are reminiscent of cubism, and at other times clearly relate to the organic or microscopic surrealism of Miró." (Theodore Roszak, p. 25)