Mel Bochner's Vanishing Point (1993) explores the concept of perspective and the elusive nature of perception. Drawing from the Renaissance's depth techniques, Bochner fuses historical depth with modern flair in this collection of works that masterfully blend past and present in his signature narrative style.
Join Our Network of Collectors. Buy, Sell and Track Demand
Historically, the vanishing point has significant roots in the artistic revolutions of the Italian Renaissance. This innovative technique granted artists the capability to convey depth on a previously flat, two-dimensional canvas. In Bochner's hands, however, this concept evolves. It transcends its traditional role, becoming a metaphor that draws attention to those places where communication grapples with limitations.
In a manner reminiscent of his work in Four Color Quartet, Vanishing Point offers grid lines from a fresh angular perspective, accompanied by three-dimensional cubes. Rather than giving the impression of floating or being set adrift in a spinning environment, these cubes display their own rhythm and motion. Conversely, the angular background serves as a stable and consistent backdrop to these dynamic shapes.
Building upon this observation, Bochner's use of space in Vanishing Point defies traditional compositional expectations. The three-dimensional shapes, while appearing tactile and solid, challenges the viewer’s understanding of perspective. By steering away from the illusion of weightlessness, Bochner emphasises the materiality and presence of each cube, drawing the viewer into a deeper contemplation of form and space.
His calculated arrangement of shapes against the grid lines stimulates a tension between order and chaos. It feels like he's blending careful planning with sudden creativity, pulling the viewer into a visual experience. This balance shows Bochner's skill in mixing exact shapes with deep feelings, making viewers think differently about art's depth and space.
The absence of colour in Bochner's work signals a significant deviation, with the black square at the centrepiece acting as a potent focal point, drawing the viewer's gaze inward. This choice is particularly striking when considering the influence of the Suprematist artist, Kazimir Malevich. Malevich's iconic Black Square is often viewed as a revolutionary pivot in the art world, representing a radical break from traditional representation and pointing towards pure abstraction.
By incorporating a similar element into his composition, Bochner may be paying homage to Malevich's pioneering vision. It suggests that Bochner is not only drawing from his own reservoir of creativity but also nodding to the legacies of those who blazed trails in abstract art before him. In doing so, Bochner bridges the gap between past and present artistic discourses, integrating historic radicalism with contemporary sensibilities, and prompting viewers to reflect on the evolution and interplay of art movements over time.