As Earth is to Sky

This exhibition presents the second installment from an ongoing celebration of a transformative gift of twenty-two works of abstract and minimalist art donated by Murray Bring and Kathleen (Kay) Delaney Bring. The Brings’ generous philanthropy and visionary commitment to the arts have left a lasting impact on The Ringling’s holdings of modern and contemporary art. 

This new iteration highlights abstract sculptures in wood, steel, copper, and bronze by acclaimed artists Mark di Suvero (b. 1933), Bryan Hunt (b. 1947), John Van Alstine (b. 1952), and Yuriko Yamaguchi (b. 1948). It also features works on paper and panel by notable artists Robin Rose (b. 1946) and Robert Stackhouse (b. 1942) who hold a connection to Florida. Together, these artists explore abstraction through diverse materials and forms, creating dynamic sculptures and works that engage with space, texture, and movement.

​​A major highlight of the exhibition will be Diamond Sentinel II (1981–89), a cast iron sculpture by pioneering American artist Beverly Pepper (1922–2020). Renowned for her site-specific installations and contributions to land art, Pepper’s work draws from abstract expressionism, ancient architecture, and natural formations. Diamond Sentinel II exemplifies the artist’s unwavering dedication to integrating form with landscape, and her ability to create totemic structures that resonate with both power and serenity. The exhibition title is drawn from a 1975 essay by art historian Edward F. Fry on the work of Pepper—a phrase that evocatively captures the relationship between sculpture, nature, and the sublime.

As Earth is to Sky: Selections from the Gift of Murray Bring and Kathleen Delaney Bring and The Ringling Collection of Modern & Contemporary Art. Through this continued celebration of the Bring gift, The Ringling reaffirms its commitment to presenting bold, thoughtful works that challenge viewers to consider the evolving relationship between form, material, and space.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website