– Artist Carl Andre death
– Carl Andre passing.

Renowned Sculptor Carl Andre Dies at 88

Background and Artistic Achievement

Carl Andre, a prominent sculptor known for his minimalist works, passed away today at the age of 88. Born in Quincy, Massachusetts in 1935, Andre relocated to New York in 1957 following his service in the US Army. He gained recognition for his floor-based sculptures that utilized industrial materials and embraced simple forms.

The Tragic Loss of Ana Mendieta

However, Andre’s success was overshadowed by a devastating event in his life. In September 1985, his third wife, Cuban artist Ana Mendieta, tragically fell 34 stories to her death from their apartment in Greenwich Village during an argument. The circumstances surrounding her death remain disputed, with no eyewitnesses or photographic evidence. Nevertheless, a doorman reported hearing a woman’s screams before Mendieta’s body landed on the roof of a nearby deli.

A Controversial Trial and Ongoing Allegations

In 1988, Andre faced second-degree murder charges related to Mendieta’s death. The highly publicized bench trial divided the arts community and resulted in Andre’s acquittal. Despite the legal outcome, suspicions regarding his involvement in Mendieta’s tragic demise persisted. These suspicions have led to protests and disruptions of exhibitions showcasing Andre’s work, with demonstrators demanding justice for Mendieta.

Accusations of Assault

In 2020, Andre faced further controversy when actress Ellen Barkin accused him of assaulting her in the late 1970s. Barkin recounted a distressing incident in which Andre forcefully gripped her neck.

Recognition and Legacy

Despite the enduring cloud of suspicion, Carl Andre continued to receive acclaim within the art world. He maintained a long-standing partnership with the Paula Cooper Gallery in Chelsea, which represented him since 1964. In fact, as recently as 2022, Andre held a solo exhibition at the gallery. His works are featured in prestigious museum collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Guggenheim Museum in New York.

Family and Remembrance

Carl Andre is survived by his wife, artist Melissa Kretschmer, and his sister, Carol.

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1. Artist Carl Andre passes away at 88
2. Renowned artist Carl Andre dies at the age of 88.