Max Modolo - circLe

More information on www.maxmodolo.com

Kinetic and minimalist work made entirely with cardboard of varying thickness and color, cut and layered manually 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: Layered hand-cut cardboard and stacked

Dimensions: about 50 × 50 cm (frame included)

Frame: Natural light wood, high thickness

Description:

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

The technique of overlapping paper layers creates a true bas-relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly compared to the one beneath it, creating small “steps” that intercept the light. The 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 artwork without mechanical parts.

Thanks to light, there is a strong optical retreat effect toward the center. The progressive shadows push the gaze inward, reinforcing the sensation of a vortex or concentric expansion. In diffuse light conditions (typical of a gallery or a modern home) the piece appears softer and 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
- Color temperature of the light (warm light enhances orange/yellow tones; cool light brings out more contrast in shadows)
- Time of day (if placed near a window)

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

The true matter of the work is not only colored paper but the binomial paper + light. With the right light it becomes a hypnotic object, almost alive. 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 crafted with artisanal precision, with clean edges and calibrated overlaps 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 applied arts ranges from ceramics to wood, from resins to 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