Language

Lawrence Weiner initially made paintings and three-dimensional work. In the mid-60s he gave this up and began using the medium of language, because in his opinion the core of the work, the concept, needs no physical carrier.

‘Statements’

Weiner subsequently applied his concepts to the wall in the form of short texts, ‘statements’, in capital letters and in his own layout. These concepts or ideas, he calls sculptures. He also presents his concepts in the form of printed matter, film or video, and even on stickers, matchboxes and as advertisements in newspapers.

Self-completed

Weiner’s work requires careful reading. The observers must complete the work themselves. That is also true of Raised up by a force of sufficient force. Weiner asks the observer to materialize this thought and form an image of all possible objects that are or could be erected or lifted by a force sufficient to achieve or maintain this condition of being raised.