Communication occupies a crucial position in human relationships, and accordingly, sculptors have continuously explored effective modes of expression to communicate with their audiences and reflected these approaches in their works. Among such methods...
Communication occupies a crucial position in human relationships, and accordingly, sculptors have continuously explored effective modes of expression to communicate with their audiences and reflected these approaches in their works. Among such methods, anthropomorphism has served as an important tool of communication throughout human history. By attributing human characteristics to non-human entities, anthropomorphism encourages viewers to project themselves onto and identify with the subject, thereby fostering a sense of intimacy. Based on this intimacy, anthropomorphism functions as an effective means of conveying the artist’s messages and emotions. The researcher, captivated by the effects and characteristics of anthropomorphism, sought to employ it throughout the creative process as a means of communication. Against this background, this study aims to analyze the communicative functions of anthropomorphism in contemporary sculpture and to examine the effects manifested within artworks.
First, drawing on existing literature, the study establishes the theoretical background and concept of anthropomorphism. It then categorizes modes of anthropomorphic expression into the humanization of non-human entities and the fusion of humans and non-humans, analyzing representative cases accordingly. In addition, to examine the effects of anthropomorphism, the study considers four perspectives: narrative construction through symbolism, visualization of abstract concepts, the use of satire and critique, and the enhancement of empathy and emotional identification. Based on this theoretical framework, the works of contemporary sculptors Erwin Wurm, Nikichi, and Branimir Misic are analyzed in depth.
The findings of this study indicate that contemporary anthropomorphic sculpture serves not only to provide visual pleasure but also functions as a metaphorical tool that intuitively conveys the artist’s philosophy and narrative by strengthening emotional identification and empathy—key effects of anthropomorphism. Furthermore, such works act as a bridge that facilitates emotional communication between the artwork and the viewer.
Finally, this study seeks to provide an opportunity to expand the possibilities of communication through the diverse applications of anthropomorphism in contemporary sculpture.