Poncet is an abstract sculptor in the tradition of Jean Arp and Constantin Brancusi. Many of Poncet’s forms are derived from nature and are pared down to display the beauty or voluptuousness of a form or the essence of a movement. His sculpture shows distinct similarities to the work of Jean Arp, with whom Poncet worked closely from 1953-1955.
Poncet believes that movement is essential in good sculpture, and he strives for a breathless balance in his work, so that as you look at it, you feel that with a gentle push, the piece would fall. As Poncet explained:
The movement is essential in my quest. Everything is moving in nature, in life. We must go all the way, trying to search the balance. Maintaining this balance is essential for the sculpture…
This highly polished piece by Swiss born artist Poncet radiates elegance. Modele no 420, circa 1973 is one of Poncet’s surrealist forms that has both an edginess to it and a playfulness. Rarely did he use sharp points in his sculptures so his positioning of the two tips that almost come together is riveting. The other shapes and curves suggest a figurative or animal form. Surrealism in sculpture is meant to be provocative – stimulating the imagination. Poncet also executed this in different patinas, as we had 2/6 and it was in a gold polished bronze patina. Poncet believed that movement was essential in formidable sculpture, and he aimed for balance in his work, so as it is viewed, one feels as if, with a gentle push, the piece would topple. As Poncet explains:
The movement is essential in my quest. Everything is moving in nature, in life. We must go all the way, trying to search the balance. Maintaining this balance is essential for the sculpture…