Departments Article

Local Art: Hammer With Oversize Handle

A sustainable — and substantial — sculpture by Philadelphia’s Dufala Brothers

By Matthew Singer

Brothers Steven and Billy Blaise Dufala have made a (family) name for themselves by creating art that’s both patently absurd and patentably practical. The first hammer sculpture in their current series, 20 inches tall, a foot wide and five inches deep, is today’s popular do-it-yourself ethos writ — and carved — large. Given its subject, title and masculine makers, the brothers’ Hammer could be taken as a totem to machismo. But is it? The handle isn’t so much swollen as statuesque, suggesting a woman’s torso. This marriage of male and female makes for a singularly striking take on what is ordinarily a most mundane tool. Here, though, an elegantly crafted, beautifully proportioned pairing of wood and metal is a union of opposites that reminds us of every day’s opportunities for creativity and humor.  Collaborative solo exhibition in March at Fleisher/Ollman Gallery.
Originally published in Philadelphia Home, Spring/Summer 2009
 

Change text size
Print

Email

Write a comment
 
 

User comments

Art?
Posted by Joe | Jun. 7, 2009 at 4:34 PM
COMMENT:
Art?

Post a comment

(* = required field.)
  • Please check to make sure that your referer is not blocked.


Subject line of your comment*
Your comments (200 words max)*
Email*
First name*
Last Name*
Enter the code shown below.
Visual CAPTCHA
This helps prevent automated form submissions.
Philadelphia It List

Philadelphia Magazine Daily

Follow Philadelphia Magazine tweets on twitter.com/phillymag
 
 

Virtual Design Home 2008

Can't make it to the Design Home? Visit and tour our home from the comfort of yours! Stop in with your family and friends to tour the lavish rooms, browse...
 
 

Design Home 2009

Philadelphia magazine's Eighth Annual Design Home. Follow our progress and explore the details as they come to life in two magnificent carriage homes at Haverford Reserve. Tours start September 10th.
 
 

6th Annual Trailblazer Award

Do you know an accomplished business woman? Submit your nomination today for Philadelphia magazine's 6th Annual Trailblazer Award! Deadline is November 6.
 
 

Green House

Visit our virtual room-by-room green guide for energy-saving tips and ideas.