Black and White I, Expanded Metal Painting, 2017

Clemens Wolf  

Black and White I, 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 showcases a mesmerizing grid of meticulous, textured strokes, exuding a captivating interplay of light and shadow. The piece features a repetitive, scale-like pattern that creates a hypnotic sense of movement and depth. The monochromatic palette intensifies the tactile quality, inviting the viewer to explore its intricate details. The delicate balance between order and chaos is achieved through precise layering, resulting in a dynamic surface that evolves with every glance. Its innovative use of texture challenges traditional notions of flatness in painting, adding a three-dimensional aspect that engages both the visual and tactile senses. This work stands out for its ability to evoke a visceral response through minimalist elements, demonstrating a masterful command of form and technique.