Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Oblique Forms

Barbara Hepworth, 1969

Name Class Date
Barbara Hepworth, Oblique Forms (1969), The Hepworth Wakefield. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Barbara Hepworth originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/barbara-hepworth/
Artist’s dates
1903 – 1975
Painted
1969
Medium
Lithography Drawn in grease on stone and printed on the principle that grease and water refuse to mix.
Movement
Surrealism Dream logic painted with waking precision: impossible things shown as if they were ordinary.
Period
Modern
Held at
The Hepworth Wakefield originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/the-hepworth-wakefield-wakefield/
Artistic style
Modernism
Influences
Surrealism
Notable elements or techniques
Geometric abstraction
Subject or theme
Form and Space

Copyright This work is still under copyright. Barbara Hepworth died in 1975; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it remains in force until 2045. The image is shown here for classroom reference; rights remain with the rights holder.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

Oblique Forms — Barbara Hepworth Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Oblique Forms — Barbara Hepworth

When was this painted?

  1. 1900
  2. 1910
  3. 1920
  4. 1930
  5. 1940
  6. 1950
  7. 1960
  8. 1970

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 72 at death.

Painted when the artist was 66. The artist lived to 72. 113 of the 133 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Barbara Hepworth (1903–1975) ▲ this work, 1969 every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1947 Main working years: 1947–1965 Late works: from 1965

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/barbara-hepworth-oblique-forms-D663Q6-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Putty #daddd6

    Catalogued palette

    • #DADDD6
    • #64605B
    • #959190
    • #CEC4A0

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Neutrals The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Putty
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Serene How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Brilliant How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Muted How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Barbara Hepworth over the last twelve months — 6 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 81.4%
    2. 2 Singapore 6.8%
    3. 3 United Kingdom 5.1%
    4. 4 Germany 3.4%
    5. 5 India 1.7%
    6. 6 United States of America 1.7%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 20 most looked-at works by Barbara Hepworth

    1. 1 Model for, 1947 6.9%
    2. 2 Itea, 1971 4.2%
    3. 3 Hollow Form with White Interior, 1963 4.2%
    4. 4 Mother and Child, 1934 4.2%
    5. 5 Drawing for Sculpture (Santorin), 1955 2.8%
    6. 6 River Form, 1965 2.8%
    7. 7 Prototype for, 1962 2.8%
    8. 8 Three Forms 2.8%
    9. 9 Spring, 1966 2.8%
    10. 10 The Pond (Two Figures), 1922 2.8%
    11. 11 Spring (Arts Council Collection), 1966 2.8%
    12. 12 Barbara Hepworth at work on the plaster for Oval Form (Trezion) (Photo: Val Wilmer), 1963 2.8%
    13. 13 Shaft and Circle, 1972 2.8%
    14. 14 Drawing for Sculpture (Santorin), 1955 1.4%
    15. 15 Delos, 1971 1.4%
    16. 16 Olympus, 1971 1.4%
    17. 17 The Shadow Dance, 1919 1.4%
    18. 18 Pierced Hemisphere I, 1937 1.4%
    19. 19 Desert Forms, 1971 1.4%
    20. — Oblique Forms, 1969 this painting 0.0%

    Together these works take 53.1% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 150 works by this artist, of which 53 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    Oblique Forms — Barbara Hepworth Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Oblique Forms — Barbara Hepworth

    A Dance of Geometry and Soul

    In the quiet realm of Barbara Hepworth’s Oblique Forms, created in 1969, the boundaries between the physical and the metaphysical begin to dissolve. This exquisite lithograph, part of her celebrated series of twelve lithographs produced under the guidance of Stanley Jones, serves as a profound meditation on the balance between structure and spontaneity. At first glance, the viewer is met with a striking arrangement of geometric shapes—two primary circles intersecting at a deliberate, oblique angle—set against a soft, luminous yellow backdrop. Yet, to look merely at the shapes is to miss the heartbeat of the work. There is an inherent tension in that intersection, a subtle disruption of symmetry that invites the eye to wander through a space that feels both mathematically precise and deeply organic.

    The technique of lithography allows Hepworth to translate her monumental sculptural language onto the delicate surface of paper. Through the careful application of color and form, she achieves a sense of depth that mimics the hollowed spaces of her famous bronze and stone works. The muted yellow atmosphere acts as a warm, contemplative void, while the blue centers of the intersecting circles provide a cool, rhythmic counterpoint. Small, strategically placed secondary circles float around the main composition like celestial bodies or pebbles in a stream, reinforcing a sense of interconnectedness and spatial exploration. This is not merely a drawing of shapes; it is an architectural blueprint for an emotional landscape.

    The Legacy of Modernist Intuition

    To understand Oblique Forms, one must look back to the artist’s roots in Wakefield and her transformative years at the Royal College of Art. Hepworth was a pioneer of the Modernist movement, a woman who successfully bridged the gap between the rational precision of abstraction and the raw, intuitive power of Surrealism. Her fascination with the natural world—the weathered textures of rocks, the spiral of shells, and the rhythmic flow of tides—is distilled here into pure, essential geometry. In this print, the "oblique" nature of the forms suggests a movement that is never static; it captures the very essence of growth and change found in the natural environment.

    For the discerning collector or interior designer, this piece offers more than just aesthetic beauty; it provides a focal point of intellectual and emotional gravity. The artwork possesses a unique ability to anchor a room, bringing with it a sense of stillness and sophisticated grace. Whether placed in a minimalist contemporary gallery or a richly textured classical study, Oblique Forms commands attention through its subtlety. It is a masterpiece of balance, offering a window into a world where geometry does not constrain emotion, but rather provides the very framework through which we might understand it.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    Oblique Forms — Barbara Hepworth Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Barbara Hepworth

    Born in Wakefield, United Kingdom

    early life and education

    dame barbara hepworth, a renowned english artist and sculptor, was born on january 10, 1903, in wakefield, yorkshire. she attended the leeds school of art from 1920 and later won a county scholarship to study at the royal college of art (rca) in london from 1921 until she was awarded the diploma in 1924.

    artistic career

    dame barbara hepworth's work exemplifies modernism, particularly modern sculpture. she was one of the few female artists to achieve international prominence.

    in 1933, she co-founded the unit one art movement with ben nicholson, paul nash, and others, seeking to unite surrealism and abstraction in british art.

    hepworth's early work was characterized by abstraction and her involvement with the paris-based art movement, abstraction-création.

    notable works and exhibitions

    oval form (trezion), a bronze sculpture, is part of the kimbell art museum collection in fort worth, united states. (view on AllPaintingsStore)

    two forms, a sculpture, is exhibited at the hepworth wakefield in wakefield, united kingdom. (view on AllPaintingsStore)

    totem, a marble sculpture, is also part of the collection at the hepworth wakefield. (view on AllPaintingsStore)

    legacy and museum collections

    barbara hepworth's work is widely recognized, with her sculptures and paintings forming part of various museum collections worldwide. the hepworth wakefield, named after the artist, houses numerous masterpieces from renowned artists, including hepworth's own works. (discover more about the hepworth wakefield on AllPaintingsStore)

    conclusion

    dame barbara hepworth's pioneering work in modern british sculpture has left an indelible mark on the art world. her legacy continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike, with her works remaining a testament to her innovative spirit and artistic genius. more about barbara hepworth on wikipedia

    Museum

    The Hepworth Wakefield

    On show in Wakefield, United Kingdom

    The Hepworth Wakefield: A Sanctuary of Sculpture and Light

    Located on the south side of the River Calder in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, The Hepworth Wakefield is more than just a gallery; it’s an architectural statement and a testament to Barbara Hepworth's legacy—a celebration of British modernist art that continues to inspire visitors today. Opened in 2011 by David Chipperfield Architects, this building embodies the spirit of its namesake: simplicity, elegance, and a profound connection with the surrounding landscape.

    Architectural Marvel:

    Designed by David Chipperfield, the gallery’s ten trapezoidal blocks are clad in pigmented concrete—a groundbreaking material choice that reflects Wakefield's industrial heritage while embracing a strikingly modern aesthetic.

    Hepworth Legacy:

    The collection houses over 400 sculptures and drawings by Barbara Hepworth, showcasing her pioneering approach to form, space, and material – from early figurative works to increasingly abstract explorations of the human figure.

    Diverse Artistic Voices:

    Beyond Hepworth’s contributions, The Hepworth Wakefield champions a rich tapestry of British modern and contemporary artists including Henry Moore, Helen Chadwick, and David Hockney, fostering dialogue between masters and emerging talent.

    A History Rooted in Tradition

    The gallery's origins lie in Wakefield Art Gallery, established in 1923 as a local cultural institution—a space dedicated to nurturing artistic appreciation within the community. However, it was the ambitious vision to create a purpose-built venue worthy of honoring Hepworth’s influence and furthering British sculpture that propelled its transformation into The Hepworth Wakefield.

    Early Years:

    Wakefield Art Gallery initially focused on displaying works by European masters alongside regional artists.

    The Prize Initiative:

    Launched in 2015, the Hepworth Prize for Sculpture provides a crucial platform for supporting emerging sculptural talent and bolstering British artistic innovation.

    Recognition & Awards:

    The gallery’s architectural brilliance was acknowledged with the UK's Museum of the Year Award in 2017—a testament to its commitment to excellence and engagement with visitors.

    Exploring Contemporary Art Through Sculpture

    The Hepworth Wakefield distinguishes itself through its unwavering dedication to showcasing contemporary art, particularly sculpture. Its curators strive to present exhibitions that challenge perceptions and ignite intellectual curiosity – fostering a deeper understanding of artistic expression and its role in shaping our cultural landscape.

    Recent Exhibitions:

    Highlights include retrospectives dedicated to artists like Helen Chadwick, offering fresh perspectives on groundbreaking work, and explorations of diverse artistic mediums.

    Community Engagement:

    Workshops, educational programs, and events extend The Hepworth Wakefield’s reach beyond its galleries—connecting with local audiences and promoting artistic literacy.

    A Unique Destination:

    Combining architectural grandeur with a vibrant artistic program, The Hepworth Wakefield provides an immersive experience for art lovers seeking inspiration and fostering appreciation for British heritage.

    Beyond Walls: A Celebration of Sculpture’s Influence

    The Hepworth Wakefield's ethos transcends mere display; it embodies a belief in sculpture’s ability to communicate emotion, provoke thought, and enrich our understanding of the world around us. Its commitment to supporting emerging artists ensures that British sculpture continues to evolve—inspiring future generations of creatives and enriching cultural discourse.

    The Tim Sayer Bequest:

    The gallery acquired Hepworth’s Sculpture with Colour (Oval Form) Pale Blue and Red (1943)—a monumental artwork previously sold at auction—thanks to a generous bequest from Tim Sayer, bolstering its collection of celebrated British artists.

    Ongoing Research & Collaboration:

    Partnerships with institutions like the Art Fund underscore The Hepworth Wakefield’s dedication to advancing artistic scholarship and fostering dialogue between art and society.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Oblique Forms

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/barbara-hepworth-oblique-forms-D663Q6-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Hepworth, Barbara. Oblique Forms. 1969, The Hepworth Wakefield. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/barbara-hepworth-oblique-forms-D663Q6-en/
    APA
    Hepworth, Barbara (1969). Oblique Forms [Painting]. The Hepworth Wakefield. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/barbara-hepworth-oblique-forms-D663Q6-en/
    Chicago
    Barbara Hepworth. Oblique Forms. 1969. The Hepworth Wakefield. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/barbara-hepworth-oblique-forms-D663Q6-en/
    Harvard
    Hepworth, Barbara (1969) Oblique Forms. The Hepworth Wakefield. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/barbara-hepworth-oblique-forms-D663Q6-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    Oblique Forms — Barbara Hepworth Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Oblique Forms — Barbara Hepworth

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: sculpture, abstraction, geometric forms. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Three Forms, earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Surrealism: Dream logic painted with waking precision: impossible things shown as if they were ordinary. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    Oblique Forms — Barbara Hepworth Part 5 · Look closely

    Questions & Answers

    What atmosphere does "Oblique Forms" have?

    "Oblique Forms" by Barbara Hepworth is described as serene in mood. This classification can help match the work to a setting.

    Is there a slideshow for "Oblique Forms" by Barbara Hepworth?

    The diaporama of "Oblique Forms" can be watched on the artwork's Diaporama page.

    What does "Oblique Forms" share with the rest of Barbara Hepworth's output?

    Within Barbara Hepworth's output, "Oblique Forms" sits in the Surrealism style, alongside the themes of abstraction, surrealism, british sculpture, geometric forms, hepworth legacy.