Robert Jacobsen

Robert Jacobsen was a Danish sculptor and artist who is best known for his abstract, expressive works made primarily of iron. He was born in Copenhagen in 1912 and initially trained as a painter at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. However, he later shifted his focus to sculpture, which would become his primary medium for the rest of his career.

In the early part of his career, Jacobsen worked with materials such as wood and stone, creating works that reflected his interest in the natural world. However, by the 1950s, he began using iron as his primary medium. This decision would prove to be a turning point in his career, as it allowed him to explore new possibilities in form, texture, and composition.

Throughout his career, Jacobsen was an important figure in the development of modern sculpture, and his work was exhibited widely throughout Europe and the United States. He was also known for his public commissions, creating large-scale works that were placed in prominent locations throughout Denmark and beyond.

In addition to his work as a sculptor, Jacobsen was also an accomplished painter and printmaker. His paintings and prints often featured bold, abstract forms and vivid colors, reflecting his interest in the expressive potential of line and color.

Throughout his career, Jacobsen received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Grand Prize at the 1964 Venice Biennale. His work continues to be celebrated today for its innovative use of materials and its powerful visual impact. He died in 1993, leaving behind a rich legacy of sculptural and artistic achievement.