Aegean Artist's Work Adorns Bronx Science Halls

Written by Preenu V.

(2005)

     The Bronx High School of Science is a school that prides itself on its rigorous academic curriculum, excellent faculty, impeccable reputation, and …its wall displays? Perhaps, I exaggerated on the wall displays. All kidding aside, however, our hallway displays and showcases are an excellent reflection of the all-encompassing and unique interests of Sciencites. Every floor has its share of eye-catching displays: from the tessellation display in the math wing to the weather station on the third floor. I am proud to say that this year our Greek program has also joined the ranks of contributing one-of-a-kind displays with a photo and sculpture exhibition that pays tribute to the famed late Greek artist, Nikos Ikaris and his large body of work.

     Just a couple of feet away from the Foreign Language Department office, the display includes pictures of several examples of Mr. Ikaris’ collection of masterpieces to the hundreds of curious Sciencites and visitors who pass through the hallways each and every day. Even through pictures, the images look absolutely breathtaking. One image that particularly caught my attention was that of the bronze bust of Alexander the Great. The sculpture is unique in that Mr. Ikaris sculpted the legendary man with his hair seemingly billowing in the wind. Mr. Ikaris effectively captured Alexander the Great at the prime of his career, and also captured Alexander’s sense of determination that is perhaps unrivaled until this day.

     One of Mr. Ikaris’ greatest strengths was his versatility: he did not stick to one genre of sculptures. He did religious, mythological, and historical pieces seamlessly and even did different styles of sculpting. The sculpture of Antigone with her brother Polyneices is a particularly striking piece. Mr. Ikaris went above and beyond in portraying the shame and anguish Antigone felt for not being able to give Polyneices a proper burial. Mr. Ikaris’ portrayal of the downward spiral of Icaros is also quite stunning in that he captured the essence of the story by making it more abstract than his other pieces, and leaving it more to the viewer to fill in the blanks.

     Michelangelo once said, “I saw the angel in marble and carved until I set him free.” It seems that Mr. Ikaris too has the same depth of perception when it comes to seeing the full potential of a slab of marble, whereas the rest of us would see…well, a slab of marble. Mr. Ikaris’ legacy lives through his masterpieces found all over the world, and his pieces will continue to evoke a myriad of emotions in those who view them.