Thursday, March 26, 2009

Moby Dick Gallery

By Mara Hernandez-Capili

Moby Dick is an All-American Classic Tale. It was written in 1851 by an American novelist named Herman Melville. The story is about the battle between an angry ship captain named Ahab and a ferocious white sperm whale. Moby Dick is a story that was regarded the high value of being discussed in American schools as part of their curriculum. The tale has a curios history because it was not accepted by the mass at its release. It wasnt until 1930 when the book was republished with illustrations that it finally gained popularity.

American artist named Frank Stella made several artworks focusing on the tale of Moby Dick as its concept from 1985 to 1997. He created one artwork or two to each of the novels 165 chapters. The varying artworks altogether sum up to about 266 pieces of sculptures, metal relief, murals and prints. Some say that Stella has genuine likeness for the novel that bordered down to him making these timeless pieces of art. His works are currently considered as one of America's treasures.

There will be an exhibition of the Moby Dick works by Frank Stella at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Michigan. It will not feature all of the Moby Dick artworks but some 30 pieces including his acclaimed masterpiece The Fountain. The exhibit will be opened to the public and everyone is encouraged to see it on January 23 up to May 3, 2009. The event is a great time for families to enjoy and for parents to bond with their kids.

Moby Dick is certainly a piece of literature that was able to make its mark in American history. One interesting fact about the novel is its inclusion of a character named Starbuck which was well, the main inspiration of the famous coffee chain. Starbuck is the young mate of Captain Ahabs ship who is the sole person who contradicts Ahabs plan to fight and kill the whale. His character was of a gentle and possibly coward nature who longs to go back home to his young wife and son.

Catch a glimpse of the exhibit. Be inspired at the talent of an all-around American artist.

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