Is It Art?

A fascinating look at how the definition of art itself went on trial, thanks to artist Constantin Brâncuși’s famous Bird in Space sculpture

When Constantin Brancusi finished his sculpture called Bird in Space, he thought it perfectly represented a bird in flight. But when he shipped it to New York for an exhibition, customs officials were confused. What was that slender object made of bronze? It didn’t look like any bird they’d ever seen! They refused to call it art and give it an artwork tax exemption. Brancusi was shocked and took them to court. The trial that ensued, with its discussions of what makes art, was at times hilarious, but ultimately the case helped bring modern art into the mainstream, and helped folks see art in a whole new light.

With its compelling mix of humorous text and gorgeous mixed-media illustrations, Ioana Hobai gives readers an eye-opening look at how art is viewed and how it can make us feel, as well as see.