Untitled IX. From The Balance Series, 2022

Salvatore Arnone  

Untitled IX, 2022 by Salvatore Arnone. From the Balance series. Photography, ink and acrylic on paper. Image size: 50 in. H x 35 in. W. Edition of 3 + 1AP. Unframed 

With Balance the artist starts exploring more deeply the boundaries of the photographic media by mixing it with different techniques on a very traditional subject (classic sculptures). Pictures come from the collections of the Archeologic Museum of Naples and the Louvre in Paris. This artwork is a striking fusion of classical and contemporary elements. The central figure is a marble statue, reminiscent of ancient Greek sculpture, showcasing a powerful male form with muscular definition. Notably, the statue is missing its arms, adding an intriguing layer of timelessness and imperfection. Overlaying the classical form are bold, modern graphic elements: thick black bars obscuring the eyes and midsection, which invoke themes of censorship or anonymity. The letters "LL CO568" are stamped across the chest, suggesting a code or cataloging element, further intertwining contemporary motifs with the historical subject. The background is a muted pink, positioning the statue in a minimalist frame that highlights its form while enhancing the modernist aspects. This juxtaposition creates a dialogue between history and modernity, inviting viewers to reflect on the evolution of art and identity.