What are the origins of using concrete for modern abstract animal sculptures?

The use of concrete in modern abstract animal sculptures stems from a blend of artistic innovation and material practicality. Emerging in the early 20th century, artists began experimenting with concrete for its durability, versatility, and affordability, diverging from traditional materials like marble or bronze. The rise of modernist movements, such as Brutalism, further popularized concrete for its raw, industrial aesthetic, allowing sculptors to create bold, geometric interpretations of animals. Pioneers like Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth explored abstract forms, inspiring later artists to use concrete for its textural and structural possibilities. Today, concrete remains a favored medium for its ability to merge artistic abstraction with the organic essence of animal figures, bridging nature and modernity.