Arnoldus Gruter “Venus in Red” Large Torso Sculpture – Fiberglass, 27"

A dramatic large-scale modernist sculpture by Arnoldus “Arnold” Gruter, titled Venus in Red, depicting two abstracted female torsos in bold red lacquer. Executed in fiberglass with painted surface and black sculptural boots, the figures are mounted on a sturdy wood plinth (included but unattached). The piece exemplifies Gruter’s signature blend of sensual form, theatrical exaggeration, and mid-century abstraction, commanding attention with its scale and vivid palette.

About the Artist:

Arnoldus “Arnold” Gruter (20th Century, Dutch-American)
Artist Biography & Reference Sheet

Arnoldus Gruter was a Dutch-born sculptor and printmaker who became an influential artistic figure in the American Midwest during the mid-to-late 20th century. Best known for his bold sculptural forms and stylized representations of the human figure, Gruter's work bridges symbolism, abstraction, and modernist aesthetics.

Gruter served as the artist-in-residence at Mankato State College (now Minnesota State University, Mankato), where he maintained a studio in the student union building and was actively involved in the campus art scene. His tenure there resulted in numerous personal connections and commissions, including the university’s most recognizable public artwork—Waves—a monumental red steel sculpture fabricated at Jones Metal Products and dedicated in memory of graduate student Jerry W. Berger.

Waves is a kinetic visual metaphor that reflects Gruter’s signature approach: exploring the interplay of movement and stillness, organic and geometric. “The sea is always there, there is no beginning and no end... so it’s the same thing as a university,” Gruter is quoted as saying about the piece.

Alongside his large-scale outdoor works, Gruter created smaller sculptural studies and limited-edition prints, many of which explore related themes through figurative abstraction. Series such as Venus in Reds and Seated Red Venus exemplify his interest in femininity, theatrical composition, and bold color. These works often feature sensuous, stylized torsos, frequently adorned with black boots or elaborate decorative elements.

A number of these pieces were retained by or gifted to Roy Lashway, then-director of the Mankato student union, and remained in the private collection of the Lashway family, close friends of the artist. This provenance is well documented and provides a direct connection to Gruter’s creative environment and professional circle during his most productive period.

Gruter’s legacy lives on through his public works, private collections, and the continued interest in his unique synthesis of modernist design and symbolic figuration.

Provenance:
From the personal collection of the Lashway family, close friends of the artist. Originally acquired directly from Gruter during his residency at Mankato State College. This piece was part of a body of work retained by Roy Lashway, director of the college’s student union during Gruter’s tenure.

Medium:
Fiberglass construct with painted lacquer finish; includes solid wood display base (unattached)

Condition:
In good condition overall. Shows wear to the painted finish and visible cracking in areas of the red surface consistent with age and material. The wooden base remains sturdy and stable.

Dimensions:
Statue Without Base: 27" H x 22" W x 12 1/2" D
Wooden Base: 3 1/2" H x 19" W x 13" D
Weight without Base: 22 lbs 12.3 oz
(Soup can shown for scale; not included)