The artwork titled “Steel Pennies That…” was created by Lawrence Weiner in 2008 and embodies the principles of the Conceptual Art movement. It falls within the figurative genre, emphasizing the ideational over the representational.
The artwork features textual elements arranged on a wall. The black text, stating “STEEL PENNIES THAT DID NOT COME FROM HEAVEN STREWN,” contrasts against the white background. Additionally, blue italicized text arches across the wall, proclaiming, “AT THE LEVEL OF THE SEA.” This composition exemplifies the Conceptual Art movement’s focus on the conveyance of ideas, allowing viewers to interpret the meaning and relationship between the phrases independently. The minimalist and strategic placement of words highlights Weiner’s use of language as a medium, inviting contemplation about the nature and context of the phrases presented.