Air Duct Sculptures: The Minimalist Vision of Charlotte Posenenske

Charlotte Posenenske was a German artist celebrated for her minimalist sculptures that resemble air ducts or ventilation systems. Inspired by her trips to New York in the 1960s, she embraced the core ideas of American Minimalism, and used materials like sheet metal and galvanized steel to produce incredible installations.

Charlotte had a refreshingly open and flexible approach to displaying her art. She often collaborated with curators to rearrange her sculptures, ensuring they could adapt to any space, just like a functional object would. This flexibility wasn’t just a choice of style; it reflected her belief that art belongs to everyone, not just to collectors or institutions.

While her career was brief—she gave up art entirely in 1968 and shifted her focus to sociology until her passing in 1985—her influence continues to resonate. Her unique pieces are simple in form yet rich in meaning, challenging us to rethink what art is and who it’s for.

More art on the grid via Minimialissimo