Max Modolo - circLe

More information at www.maxmodolo.com

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

Title: circLe

Technique: Hand-cut and layered stacked cardboard sheets

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (frame included)

Frame: Natural light wood of substantial thickness

Description:

This work, created with stacked cardboard sheets, masterfully makes real light a fundamental constitutive element, transforming a two-dimensional appearance into a perceptual kinetic sculpture.

The technique of layered paper stacks generates a true bas-relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly beyond the one beneath it, creating small “steps” that intercept the light. Light coming from above or from the side produces clear 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 viewer’s position. Result: the piece “breathes” and constantly changes, almost like a kinetic artwork without mechanical parts.

Thanks to light, a strong optical retraction toward the center is created. The progressive shadows push the gaze inward, reinforcing the sensation of a vortex or expanding concentric circle. In diffuse lighting conditions (typical of a gallery or a modern home) the work 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
- Light color temperature (warm light enhances orange/yellow tones; cool light emphasizes 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 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 made with artisanal precision, with clean edges and calibrated overlays to achieve maximum volumetric effect. The piece is mounted on a rigid support and protected by a natural wooden frame.

Max Modolo produces these works in his studio in Italy.
His research in the field of applied arts ranges from ceramics to wood, resins to plastic materials, 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.