How do cast iron abstract sculptures address the legacy of colonialism through material sourcing?

Cast iron abstract sculptures serve as powerful mediums to interrogate the legacy of colonialism, particularly through their material sourcing. Iron, historically tied to industrialization and colonial exploitation, becomes a symbolic vessel for artists to reclaim narratives. By repurposing this metal—once used in railroads, weapons, and infrastructure built on colonial labor—sculptors critique resource extraction and forced labor systems. The abstract form allows for open interpretation, inviting viewers to reflect on unresolved histories. Artists often source iron from postcolonial regions, embedding geographic and cultural memory into their work. This practice transforms a material of oppression into one of resistance, fostering dialogue about reparations, identity, and decolonization in contemporary art. The weight and permanence of cast iron further mirror the enduring impact of colonialism, making these sculptures both aesthetic statements and historical testimonies.