The title of this work references Franz Kafka’s 1915 novella The Metamorphosis, in which the main character, Gregor Samsa, finds himself mysteriously transformed into a giant insect. Gregor reckons with his family’s rejection, his new body, and ultimately, his humanity.

Isamu Noguchi’s sculpture amplifies themes of transformation and ambiguity. It stands upright, nearly six feet tall, echoing human form, while curved shapes interlock with the central body. The extremities might resemble antennae or growing limbs, or perhaps foreign objects, piercing the center.