Red and White II, Expanded Metal Painting, 2017

Clemens Wolf  

Red and White II, Expanded Metal Painting, 2017 by Clemens Wolf 

From the series Expanded Metal Paintings. Oil on canvas . Size: 150 H x 120 W CM 

Hand-signed back by the artist. Mounted on a stretcher. Unique 

The panel paintings "Expanded Metal Paintings" are the closest to the classic art of painting. Firstly paint is applied by a brush on a primed canvas. Then wire mesh is dunked into black and white paint and is used to create abstract patterns on top of the red and light grey areas. Similar to traditional blueprints with textiles, the wire mesh is moved across the canvas like a mold. Fingerprints remain as well as the redundant paint. The finished work bears a haptic sensation, the form resembles calligraphy: the surface's sensuality takes center stage.

This artwork is a bold exploration of texture and color, dominated by a vibrant, arresting red. The piece is characterized by its intricate, grid-like pattern composed of raised, bubble-like shapes that create a tactile surface. These meticulous, repetitive formations invite a deeper engagement, drawing the viewer into its rhythmic sequence. Flecks of white intersperse the crimson grid, adding a dynamic contrast and visual depth, hinting at an underlying complexity beneath its vivid exterior. The work is a compelling study of repetition and variation, each bubble capturing light differently, thus offering a dynamic viewing experience from various angles. Its minimalist yet impactful design challenges traditional notions of painting, as it straddles the line between two and three-dimensional artistry. The artwork’s assertive use of color and form makes it an unforgettable visual presence, demanding attention and reflection.