Max Modolo - circLe

More information at www.maxmodolo.com

Kinetic and minimalist sculpture made entirely with cardstock 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 wood frame.

Title: circLe

Technique: Hand-cut and layered overlapping cardstock

Dimensions: approximately 50 × 50 cm (frame included)
Frame: Natural light wood of high thickness

Description:

This work, realized with layered cardstock, masterfully exploits 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 over the one below it, creating small “steps” that intercept the light.
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 observer’s position.
Result: the piece “breathes” and changes constantly, almost like a kinetic work 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 more painterly. Under directional lighting (e.g., angled spotlights) it becomes dramatic and almost architectural.

This is a site-responsive piece: its appearance changes radically based on:
- Light intensity
- Angle of incidence
- Color temperature of the light (warm light enhances orange/yellow tones; cold light makes shadow contrasts stand out more)
- 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 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 tied to light and space.

Technique:
Each ring was created with artisanal precision, with crisp edges and calibrated overlaps to achieve 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 plastics, painting to modern 3D expressive 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.