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October 14, 2005
Rodchenko...
The power in Rodchenko's work emerges from the ability to immediately understand the makeup of the elements in his constructions. He employed basic materials and geometric combinations which are easily comprehended by the viewer. Due to this simplicity, a transparancy of form results that allows one to focus on the complexity that Rodchenko creates in his works. Repetition of form and poignant moments of balance between shapes introduce a language between space and material combination where previously in art only a dialogue between formal representation and emotional response existed. I think this is Rodchenko's most valuable contribution to the evolution of art in the 20th century. The lesson that formal manipulations of simple materials can be an evocative means of artistic communication. This approach can also lead not just to advances in art but science and engineering as well.
While I admire his formal investigations, I do not identify well with Rodchenko's aesthetic, at least in his sculptural works. I find his poster designs striking, but for some reason his constructions do not inspire me. I've had this reaction to almost all constructivist sculpture. It is too mechanical for me to engage myself in it. I enjoy investigating the logic of their structures, but I always find myself yearning for more meaning when I look at constructivist work.
Posted by Robert Croft at October 14, 2005 01:12 PM