In the 1970s, Richard Serra's art took a significant turn towards the monumental and site-specific, marking a period of profound innovation and influence. During this decade, Serra expanded his exploration of industrial materials, most notably steel, to create large-scale sculptures that redefined the relationship between art, space, and viewer. His work from this era is characterized by a focus on process, materiality, and an engagement with the environment, aligning with Postminimalist tendencies towards simplicity and phenomenological experience (The Art Story) (Wikipedia) (Encyclopedia Britannica). Serra's engagement with space became a hallmark of his work, pushing the boundaries of sculpture beyond traditional pedestals to engage directly with the landscape and urban environments. This approach was not only about altering physical locations but also about transforming the viewer's perception and experience of space. The sculptures from this period invite the viewer to move around and through them, creating a dynamic interaction that highlights the physicality of the work and its setting (The Art Story) (Artsy). One of Serra's most controversial and iconic works, "Tilted Arc," was installed in 1981 and epitomizes the critical and public debate surrounding public art and site specificity during the 1970s. The 12-foot-tall, 120-foot-long curved steel wall bisected a public plaza in Manhattan, challenging passersby to engage with the sculpture physically and conceptually. The work sparked significant debate over the role of public art, the rights of artists versus those of the public, and the nature of site-specificity. The controversy culminated in a public hearing and the eventual removal of the sculpture, raising questions about the ownership and temporality of public artworks (Artsy). Throughout the 1970s, Serra's exploration of industrial materials and his innovative approach to sculpture profoundly influenced the trajectory of contemporary art. His work from this period reflects a deep engagement with the material, space, and the viewer's experience, emphasizing art as a phenomenological encounter rather than a purely visual or conceptual one (The Art Story) (Wikipedia) (Encyclopedia Britannica). Serra's contributions during this decade cemented his status as one of the most influential sculptors of his generation, redefining the possibilities of sculpture and the discourse around public art.