Max Modolo - circLe

More information at www.maxmodolo.com

Kinetic and minimalist artwork made entirely with 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: Hand-cut and stacked layered cardboard

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (frame included)

Frame: Natural light wood of substantial thickness

Description:

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

The technique of stacked paper layers generates a true bas-relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly above the one beneath it, creating 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 piece “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 feeling of a vortex or concentric expansion.
In diffuse lighting conditions (typical of a gallery or a modern home) the work appears softer and more painterly. Under directional light (e.g., recessed spotlights) it becomes dramatic and almost architectural.

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

The artist does not merely “represent” the light, but uses it as the primary material.

The true material of the work is not only the 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 linked to light and space.

Technique:
Each ring was made with artisanal precision, with clean edges and calibrated overlays 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 the field of applied arts ranges from ceramics to wood, resins to plastic materials, painting to modern 3D expressive techniques.
He is inspired by the work of Gerrit Rietveld, Memphis Group, Mangiarotti, Sottsass, Mendini, Cibic, Bitossi, De Lucchi, Friberg, Zanuso, Fornasetti, Rörstrand, Gio Ponti, Campi, Fontana and by pop art, geometric art, Scandinavian design, optical art, contemporary sculpture, minimalism, modern art, De Stijl, Pop Art.