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 work is mounted on a rigid support and protected by a natural wooden frame.

Title: circLe

Technique: Hand-cut and layered cardboard sheets

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (including the frame)

Frame: Natural light wood of high thickness

Description:

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

The technique of overlapping paper layers generates a true bas-relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly above the one beneath, creating small “steps” that intercept the light.
The light coming from above or from the side produces crisp 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 work “breathes” and constantly changes, almost like a kinetic piece without moving parts.

Thanks to light, a strong optical retreat toward the center is created. The progressive shadows push the gaze inward, reinforcing the sensation of a vortex or concentric expansion.
Under diffuse light (typical of a gallery or a modern home) the piece appears softer and painterly. Under directional light (e.g. tilted 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 shadow contrasts)
- Time of day (if placed near a window)

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

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

Technique:
Each ring was made with artisanal precision, with sharp 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 spans 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 of pop art, geometric art, Scandinavian design, optical art, contemporary sculpture, minimalism, modern art, De Stijl, Pop Art