On display this weekend in Algodones is an award-winning sculpture inspired by Anne Frank, alongside original letters between the artist and Frank’s father, Otto.
Sculptor Jim Crane was moved to create the two-part piece, “Homage to Anne,” in the early 1970s, after reading her famous diary. “I was struck by the philosophical importance of Anne Frank’s symbolism; her expressions of warmth and belief in man’s goodness, even while surrounded by cruelty,” Crane wrote of his muse.
In an outdoor sculpture garden at Algodones Gallery, the larger of Crane’s two elongated forms stands just over 10 feet tall (representing the spirit of Anne) and towers over the other, a seated figure pleading to her, looking for strength and understanding.
Inside the gallery are original letters between Crane and Otto Frank, who wrote to the artist after seeing photographs of his work in National Geographic Magazine. The two corresponded until Frank’s death in 1980.
“Homage” features the first two pieces in a proposed series of five. The gallery owner, Martin Quintana, says he hopes the display will help spur Crane and other artists to complete the other three.
The gallery celebrates the long-term installation with a reception June 30 from 3–8 p.m.
Algodones Gallery is open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (662 E. Frontage Rd. Algodones, NM 87001, 505-918-3962, algodonesgallery.com).