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 a rigid support and protected by a natural wood frame.

Title: circLe

Technique: Hand-cut and layered cardboard sheets arranged in overlapping concentric rings

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (frame included)

Frame: Natural light wood, high thickness

Description:

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

The technique of layered paper creates a genuine bas-relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly more than the one below it, forming small “steps” that catch 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 work 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 sense of a vortex or concentric expansion.
In diffuse lighting conditions (typical of a gallery or a modern home) the piece appears softer and more painterly. Under directional lighting (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 emphasizes shadow contrasts)
- Time of day (if placed near a window)

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

The true material of the work is not only colored paper, but the pairing 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 related to light and space.

Technique:
Each ring was crafted with artisanal precision, with clean edges and calibrated overlap 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 the field of applied arts spans ceramics and wood, resins and plastic materials, painting, and 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.