From the age of the Renaissance until the late 19th century, figurative sculpture remained largely uninterrupted. Then came Auguste Rodin, and tradition was dramatically changed. Learn more about Rodin's place in the art world as the 'father of modern sculpture,' then see a number of his works for yourself in person at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 'Rodin and the Contemporary Figurative Tradition' is open now through January 7. | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

The look when you realize you have to spring forward and not fall back. Take a minute to closely examine Auguste Rodin's masterful work. It’s difficult to separate the artist’s technical ability from the realistic, anthropomorphic qualities of this sculpture. In fact, many of Rodin’s works astutely parallel the human form. His admiration for Puget, Goujon, and the sculptors of the Middle Ages of Greece, speak to his interest in understanding how the body moved. He flawlessly transformed clay int