Amongst the simple geometric forms that characterise Fernando Calhau’s work, the square is a recurring motive – moving first from printmaking to drawing and painting, and then from a two-dimensional plane to three-dimensionality. Constructed as a steel plate box, on whose internal walls four neon words naming the four cardinal points were applied – although in the wrong sequence –, Untitled #336 thus takes the form of a square in space.

 

This then is a piece which, revealing characteristically minimalist concerns, is not only formed of industrial materials which have not been directly worked upon by the artist, but is installed directly on the floor of the exhibition space, dividing the very plane of action of the spectators, with whom it interacts, demanding not only their visual attention but forcing them to confront a presence in the space, around which they can circulate. However, in this case, the interconnection with the actual space goes beyond a relation established between the work and the physical context in which it is situated, in that the piece must assume a position which allows the word ‘north’ to be situated to the geographical north, thus placing itself in an unbounded spatial context, which extends indefinitely beyond the space in which it is exhibited.

 

In this piece, Fernando Calhau’s customary black – used chromatically but also symbolically – does not correspond to a vacuum or a dark undirected stain, associated as it is with indications which not only place it but illuminate it.

 

 

MBA

 

November 2011