El Anatsui, "Dusasa II”, Ghana, 2007. Found aluminum and copper wire.
Dusasa II by El Anatsui is a large-scale sculpture made out of found aluminum and copper wire. The piece is created from recycled materials, reflecting the artist's interest in sustainability and his concern about environmental issues. The artwork consists of a richly textured and intricate surface, with the metallic pieces forming a dense mesh of interlocking shapes and patterns. The sculpture is a visual representation of the themes of mental health and emotion. The work explores the idea that emotions are complex and interwoven, just like the materials used in their creation. The twisting, turning, and weaving of the wires evoke the complexity of human emotions, and how they can be difficult to untangle or express. Additionally, Dusasa II embodies the concept of transformation, which is another important theme in the artwork. The artist transforms discarded and seemingly useless materials into something beautiful and meaningful, highlighting the potential for transformation in our own lives. The sculpture's compelling visual details include the play of light and shadow on the shimmering surface, as well as the contrast between the industrial materials and the organic shapes created by the artist's manipulation of them. Dusasa II is a powerful and thought-provoking work of art that to reflect on their own emotional complexities and the potential for transformation in their lives.