Max Modolo - circLe

More information at www.maxmodolo.com

Kinetic and minimalist artwork made entirely with different-thickness colored cardboard, 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 wood frame.

Title: circLe

Technique: Stacked cut cardboard, hand-cut and layered

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (frame included)
Frame: Natural clear high-thickness wood

Description:

This work, realized with layered cardboard, masterfully exploits real light as a fundamental constitutive element, transforming a two-dimensional appearing artwork into a perceptual kinetic sculpture.

The technique of overlapping paper layers generates a true relief sculpture. Each ring protrudes slightly more than 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 work “breathes” and constantly changes, almost like a kinetic artwork without mechanical parts.

Thanks to the light, a strong optical retreat effect toward the center is created. The progressive shadows push the gaze inward, reinforcing the sensation of a vortex or concentric expansion.
In diffuse light (typical of a gallery or a modern home) the work 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; cold light brings out more shadow contrasts)
- Time of day (if positioned near a window)

The artist does not merely “represent” light, but uses it as 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 perceptual experiences that are sophisticated in relation to light and space.

Technique:
Each ring was crafted 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 wood frame.

Max Modolo produces these works in his studio in Italy.
His research in the field of applied arts spans ceramics, wood, resins, and 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 is influenced by pop art, geometric art, Scandinavian design, optical art, contemporary sculpture, minimalism, modern art, De Stijl, and Pop Art.