Sculpture 'Floor Frame,' by Artist Isamu Noguchi, White House Rose Garden (November 23, 2020)

The sculpture unveiled in the White House Rose Garden on November 23, 2020, is 'Floor Frame,' created by the renowned artist Isamu Noguchi (1904-1988). This significant addition to the White House collection marks Isamu Noguchi as the first Asian American artist to be represented in this prestigious setting. 'Floor Frame,' crafted in 1962, is strategically placed on the east terrace of the Rose Garden, making it a distinctive feature in this iconic outdoor space.

Noguchi conceived 'Floor Frame' as a representation of the intersection between a tree and the ground, embodying the characteristics of both a tree's canopy and an implied root system. The artist intended for the sculpture to be in direct contact with the earth, serving as a symbolic link to the natural world and encouraging a connection between viewers and the planet. Placed on the terrace, the sculpture invites visitors to happen upon it, creating a sense of discovery and adding an element of spontaneity to the viewer's experience.

The choice of Isamu Noguchi and 'Floor Frame' reflects not only the artist's unique vision but also contributes to the diversity of the White House art collection. Despite its powerful artistic presence, 'Floor Frame' maintains a humble scale, a deliberate choice that complements the authoritative ambiance of the nearby Oval Office. First Lady Melania Trump expressed her excitement about the installation, emphasizing how the sculpture not only showcases diversity within the nation's art but also recognizes and celebrates the significant contributions of Asian American artists. Overall, the addition of Isamu Noguchi's 'Floor Frame' to the White House Rose Garden enriches the space with artistic and cultural significance.

Explore Artist's Work at Following Locations

Isamu Noguchi Garden of Stone, CA

The Noguchi Museum, New York