0529. From The ONE Series, 2022

Salvatore Arnone  

0529, 2022 by Salvatore Arnone. From the ONE series. Photographic print on paper. Paper size: 174 H x 135 W cm.  Edition of 3  Unframed 

Despite photography remains his main form of expression, the author starts seeing some limits in this media to properly describe his altered and often dreamy vision of reality. In this series photography mixes with several other techniques (pastels, acrylic, pencil…) to represent the duality of objective/subjective, real and imaginary. This artwork presents a striking juxtaposition of nature and technology, featuring a detailed illustration of an octopus. The creature’s tentacles, intricately rendered with realistic texture and shading, twist and curl dynamically around a central element—a green barcode. This unusual integration of a barcode into a natural form challenges the viewer to reconsider the relationship between organic life and modern consumerism. The black and white depiction of the octopus contrasts sharply with the vivid green of the barcode, drawing immediate focus to the intersection of marine life and digital symbolism. The barcode's presence suggests themes of commodification and identity in a technologically driven world. This piece effectively uses minimal color to emphasize its message, creating a thought-provoking visual experience that invites deeper reflection on the impact of human technology on the natural world.