Artwork
High Acrobatic
High Acrobatic is a watercolor work on paper by the Contemporary Abstract artist Barbara Nessim. It dates from 1973 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
High Acrobatic is a 1973 watercolour by Barbara Nessim, featuring three high-heeled shoe designs intended for production by Carber Shoes, with accompanying material specifications.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is a trio of high-heeled shoes in grey, blue, and red, each with a wedge heel and strap. The composition suggests a fashion showcase, emphasizing elegance and sophistication.
Technique & Style
Rendered in a simple, sketchy style with bold lines and minimal detailing, the shoes are set against a plain white background to enhance visual prominence.
History & Provenance
Created in 1973 for potential production by Carber Shoes, with material specifications noted alongside the designs.
Context
Reflects the fashion design practices of the early 1970s, where artists collaborated with manufacturers to produce stylish, high-end footwear.
Legacy
Associated with the broader oeuvre of Barbara Nessim, whose work in fashion illustration and design influenced subsequent generations of artists and designers.
Artist & collection
Artist
Barbara Nessim (born 1939) is an American artist, illustrator, and educator whose work has played a significant role in expanding the boundaries between illustration, fine art, and digital media.
