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October 10, 2005
Rodchenko's Constructions
Rodchenko was able to express himself using the most basic of geometric shapes. As the beginning of the article mentions, his work seems to embody a similar structure to nature in its expression of the basic laws of nature and their codependency on one another. The idea of a 'conceptualization of interdependency' is quite fascinating and apparent within his work. His sculptures reveal an intrinsic relationship between each part and shape within the design. The laws of physics are shown as 'artistic fact' within the kinetic energy of the sculptures, each piece helping the other stay in place through symbiotic relationships.
Rodchenko had an ability to strip nature down to these simple building blocks and then reconstruct them into complex looking kinetic shapes. I enjoyed the volatility of many of his works, each one shifting within a space by altering shadow and form. Most of his works have interconnecting parts which imply strong movements that cause the sculpture to extend outside of it's space; they almost force a connected line or arc between the spaces around them.
Many of the lines and shapes that exist in his work seem to be classic forms of graphic design that are still very apparent in today's designs. Capturing kinetic energy within a sculpture without the use of a machine is highly provocative. The manipulation of sharp angles, perspective and the interconnectivity of parts is what causes much of the energy within his sculptures.
If it weren't for the preservation of a few photographs, much of his work would not have been preserved in any way. I also found it interesting that he transformed into more of a designer than a fine artist with the creation of some of his work for film titles. Had the technology been more accessible he may have made a strong use of the film medium in the context of his work. Overall, his use of universal laws in his work is still a current and powerful process.
Posted by Karl Channell at October 10, 2005 01:21 PM