Missouri Botanical Garden - Niki 2008

On Guide: n9 Sculpture: Obelisque bleu avec des fleurs Location: Museum Building Niki was acutely aware of contemporary events and social crises. In the 1980s, several of her closest friends, including a studio assistant, became ill and died of AIDS. In response, Niki produced an art book about AIDS education and prevention, called You Cant Catch It Holding Hands, and also Obelisque bleu avec des fleurs. Obelisque bleu avec des fleurs is commonly viewed as a simple decorated vertical column covered with flowers. That is the simplest description and generally the preferred explanation for children. Its true inspiration, however, is a monumental version of a decorated condom that Niki wanted to produce as part of an AIDS awareness campaign. True to herself, Niki used whimsy to address and create interest in a serious social issue.