This is an iconic sculpture for all those interested in the world of academia and is recognizable by most people worldwide. I myself have seen this sculpture when it visited my local museum on a national tour. I'll begin with a brief biography of the sculptor.

Auguste Rodin (b. 1840, Paris– d. 1917) was born into a modest family in Paris, France. He began drawing at 10, went to art school and became world-reknowned by the time he was 60- Yes, sucess doesn't happen overnight . He had some scandals, mishaps and adventures which could violate some rules so we'll leave Rodin's Bio at that ... and move to his style and advancements.

One main thing to remember about Rodin's work is that he introduced a weight into his sculptures- showed gravity in effect. Every sculptor up to this point was sculpting things that were floating in space or standing so erect that you'd think they're not human- especially a teen of America . Rodin showed muscles straining. He showed heavy-set figures. He shows WEIGHT. If you glance over at "The Thinker," you'll see exactly what I'm talking about.

"The Thinker" is not sitting there, relaxing, surfing the web, eatin' pizza... He isn't just passively thinking about something- flittering contemplation of some minute idea. He is straining, every muscle is tense- he is pondering, nay, struggling with something DEEP! As I said before, I have seen this work and you can actually feel him straining with some great idea. It is for that reason that "The Thinker" has become so famous: people- every culture, race, creed- admire the Thinkers. I'm not saying the thinkers are always right or that they ARE more special- just that they are generally revered and that is what make "The Thinker" have such universal appeal.*

Rodin works are generally finished in Bronze. It should be known that an artist cannot work in Bronze (easily, anyways). Rodin would make quick sketches in clay that were later fine-tuned, cast in plaster, and forged into bronze or carved in marble. He also used interesting models- gymnasts, acrobats, athletes so as to see more dynamic bodies in action. He had them move about the room and made quick clay sculptures of interesting poses.

Rodin is now considered the father of modern sculpture. By far, the greatest sculptor to come from France. Moving on to my review of "Thoroughly Modern Millie"- a Jazzy Broadway classic which is currently experiencing a revival. Thanks for reading!

LOL, I'm in the middle of a computer class at my library and helping an elderly lady figure out Windows.So, I am sorry if I've forgotten something or this article sounds slightly demented.

*I don't mean to push any sort of agenda- I'm just explaining why I think this work has such universal appeal.

AvohkiiLight