Max Modolo - circLe

More information at www.maxmodolo.com

Kinetic and minimalist artwork 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 rigid support and protected by a natural wood frame.

Title: circLe

Technique: Layered hand-cut cardboard, stacked

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (frame included)

Frame: Thick, light natural wood

Description:

This work, made with layered cardboard, masterfully uses real light as a fundamental constituting element, transforming a two-dimensional appearance into a perceptual kinetic sculpture.

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

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

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

The artist does not simply “represent” light, but uses it as a primary material. The true matter 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 overlaps to achieve maximum volumetric effect. The piece is mounted on rigid support and protected by a natural wood frame.

Max Modolo creates these works in his studio in Italy. His research in applied arts spans from ceramics to wood, resins to plastic materials, painting to modern 3D expressive 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 of pop art, geometric art, Scandinavian design, optical art, contemporary sculpture, minimalism, modern art, De Stijl, Pop Art.