Max Modolo - circLe

More information at www.maxmodolo.com

Kinetic and minimalist work made entirely with cardstock of different thicknesses and colors, cut and overlapped by hand to create a suggestive three-dimensional effect. The work is mounted on a rigid support and protected by a natural wood frame.

Title: circLe

Technique: Hand-cut and layered overlapped cardstock

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (including the frame)

Frame: Natural light wood, high thickness

Description:

This piece, realized with overlapped cardstock, masterfully exploits real light as a fundamental constitutive element, transforming an apparently two-dimensional work into a perceptual kinetic sculpture.

The technique of overlapping paper layers creates a true bas-relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly above the one beneath it, forming small “steps” that intercept the light. Light coming from above or from the side produces sharp and 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 observer’s position. Result: the work “breathes” and constantly changes, almost like a kinetic piece without mechanical parts.

Thanks to light, a strong optical retreat toward the center is created. The progressive shadows push the viewer’s 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 more 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 does not merely “represent” light but uses it as primary material.

The true medium of the work is not only colored paper, but the duo 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 cardstock) to create sophisticated perceptual experiences tied to light and space.

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

Max Modolo creates these works in his studio in Italy.
His research in applied arts ranges from ceramics to wood, from resins to 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.