Max Modolo - circLe

More information at www.maxmodolo.com

Kinetic and minimalist artwork made entirely with sheets of cardboard of different thicknesses and colors, cut and stacked 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: Stacked, hand-cut cardboard layers

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (frame included)

Frame: Natural light wood of substantial thickness

Description:

This piece, created with layered cardboard, masterfully utilizes real light as a fundamental constitutive element, transforming a two-dimensional appearance into a perceptual kinetic sculpture.

The technique of layered paper slices generates a true bas-relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly over the one below it, creating small “steps” that intercept the light. Light coming from above or from the side produces crisp, 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 constantly changes, almost like a kinetic artwork 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 diffused lighting (typical of a gallery or a modern home) the piece appears softer and more painterly. Under directional lighting (e.g., tilted spotlights) it becomes dramatic and almost architectural.

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

The artist does not merely “represent” light, but uses 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 tied to light and space.

Technique:
Each ring was crafted with artisanal precision, with clean edges and calibrated overlays to achieve the maximum volumetric effect. The piece 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.