What historical movements have utilized cedar for abstract sculptural works?

Cedar, a durable and aromatic wood, has been a favored material in abstract sculptural works across various historical movements. Its natural grain and workability made it ideal for artists seeking to blend organic forms with abstract expression.

In the early 20th century, modernist sculptors like Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth experimented with cedar to create fluid, abstract shapes that emphasized negative space and natural textures. The material's resilience allowed for intricate carving, enabling artists to explore themes of nature and human form.

Similarly, the Japanese Mingei folk art movement celebrated cedar's rustic beauty, using it for abstract yet functional sculptures that reflected simplicity and craftsmanship. Indigenous cultures, such as the Pacific Northwest Coast tribes, also carved cedar into totemic abstract works, imbuing them with spiritual and cultural symbolism.

Today, contemporary artists continue to use cedar for its ecological and aesthetic appeal, bridging tradition and innovation in abstract sculpture. Its timeless appeal ensures cedar remains a cornerstone of artistic expression.