Engagement
Dennis Oppenheim, United States
Description
Title: Engagement
Artist: Dennis Oppenheim (1938 – 2011, United States)
Medium: Plexiglass, aluminum, rolled steel, paint, electric lights
Dimensions (H x W): 640 x 853 cm (252 x 336 in)
Weight: 1,588 kg (3,501 lbs)
Location: Huntington Meadow, Sunset Beach Park, Vancouver
Engagement is one of three versions that artist Dennis Oppenheim produced, referencing the traditional engagement rings. In a Pop Art form where everyday domestic objects are taken out of their domestic environment and re-conceptualized as monumental sculptures, this version of Engagement rises nearly 30 feet. Where one would expect to find diamonds, there are two translucent houses of plexiglass and aluminum, which are illuminated and precariously tilted away from each other.
As a commentary on the precarious balances in marriage—that of the romantic, traditional, economic and the illusions inherent in the institution—the meaning of Engagement is intentionally open-ended. Throughout his career Oppenheim often declined to interpret or explain his work, leaving the interpretation to the viewer.
Engagement was installed during national debates on same-sex marriage, which ultimately led to the Canadian Parliament’s passing of a bill legalizing such unions. Since its installation for the 2005-2007 Vancouver Biennale exhibition, the sculpture has provided a picture-perfect backdrop for innumerable marriage proposals, wedding photos, and celebrations of all types.
Having constructed several large-scale sculptural works throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Oppenheim remains one of the world’s most influential and respected artists. His work was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Vancouver Biennale in 2007.
A lasting cultural legacy and an iconic urban landmark, this monumental artwork continues to capture the hearts of local visitors and tourists.
