Max Modolo - circLe

More information at www.maxmodolo.com

A kinetic and minimalist work, made entirely with cardboard of varying thickness and color, cut and layered by hand to create a suggestive three-dimensional effect. The piece is mounted on a rigid support and protected by a natural wood frame.

Title: circLe

Technique: Cardboards layered, hand-cut and stacked

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (frame included)

Frame: Natural light wood, high thickness

Description:

This artwork, realized with layered cardboard, masterfully uses real light as a fundamental constitutive element, transforming what appears to be a two-dimensional piece into a perceptual kinetic sculpture.

The technique of overlapping paper layers creates a true bas-relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly from the one beneath it, forming small steps that intercept the light. The light coming from above or from the side produces sharp, graduated shadows on the inner edges of each circle. These shadows are not static: they vary in intensity and length depending on the angle of the light source and the viewer’s position. Result: the work “breathes” and changes constantly, almost like a kinetic piece without mechanical parts.

Thanks to the light, a strong optical retreat toward the center is created. The progressive shadows push the gaze inward, reinforcing the sensation of a vortex or concentric expansion. In diffuse lighting (typical of a gallery or a modern home) the piece appears softer and painterly. Under directional light (e.g., angled spotlights) it becomes dramatic and almost architectural.

This is a site-responsive work: its appearance changes radically based on:
- Light intensity
- Angle of incidence
- Color temperature of the light (warm light enhances orange/yellow tones; cool light highlights shadow contrasts)
- Time of day (if placed near a window)

The artist goes beyond mere “representing” light, using it as a primary material. The true material of the work is not only colored paper, but the combination of paper + light. With the right light it becomes a hypnotic, almost living object. It is an excellent example of how contemporary art can use humble materials (simple cardboard) to create sophisticated perceptual experiences related to light and space.

Technique:
Each ring was crafted with artisanal precision, with clean edges and calibrated overlaps to achieve the maximum volumetric effect. The work is mounted on a rigid support and protected by a natural wood frame.

Max Modolo produces these works in his studio in Italy. His research in applied arts spans ceramics, wood, resins, and plastic materials, from painting to modern expressive 3D techniques. He is passionate about the work of Gerrit Rietveld, Memphis Group, Mangiarotti, Sottsass, Mendini, Cibic, Bitossi, De Lucchi, Friberg, Zanuso, Fornasetti, Rörstrand, Gio Ponti, Campi, Fontana and about pop art, geometric art, Scandinavian design, optical art, contemporary sculpture, minimalism, modern art, De Stijl, Pop Art.