Sold for: $3,750

PROVENANCE
Fondation Guido Molinari, Montreal

LITERATURE
Rodolphe de Repentigny, La Presse, November 29, 1958

Please note: this work is unframed. The full sheet size is 31 1/2 x 47 3/4 inches.

The late 1950s was marked for Guido Molinari by a break from the strictly plastic properties of painting as understood by the Plasticiens. The sweeping brushstrokes of his gestural series stand in contrast to the geometric explorations of the Noirs et Blancs series of 1956 with their relationships of plane, background and form in “the dynamic space”. The pictorial and graphic work of the artist’s vigorous Calligraphies made its first appearance at a Galerie Artek show in 1958. About these works, De Repentigny would say that “black begins to raise a ruckus in its opposition to white, defining a space coincident with the calligram taking on the value of sign.” These very free graphic designs denote “another Molinari” – expressionistic and closer to poetry (another of his principal occupations) albeit still complicit in the construction of a two-dimensional world.

In the case of this series (like Noirs et Blancs in 1956) the flatness of the silkscreen conveniently puts a damper on the execution of the works and highlights their composition, at a time when Molinari was preoccupied with form to the exclusion of colour. The silkscreen medium made possible a new, more intimate relationship with the work.

Consignor proceeds from the sale of this Lot will benefit the Guido Molinari Foundation.

The Buyer is hereby advised to read fully the Terms and Conditions of Business and Catalogue Terms, including the HO2 Sale Notice and Special Terms of Sale.

All prices are in Canadian Dollars

Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.