Günther Uecker (1930 Wendorf) (F), Optische Partitur II'

relief print and lithograph on handmade paper, 66,5 cm x 90 cm sheet dimension, signed, 014 dated, 67/100 numbered, Edition Stoob Steindruck, St. Gallen (with embossing stamp), mounted

Günther Uecker studied at the art academies in Berlin and Düsseldorf. The nail became the main compositional element of his art. It is used to create symmetrical formations, arrangements and rhythms. Whether it was hammered directly into the wood, whitewashed or, as here, used as an instrument for embossed printing. The word instrument is to be thought of ambiguously, since Uecker uses the nail on the one hand as an instrument of craftsmanship to shape the handmade paper with precisely the pressure that makes it take on the circular, punctual form of the nail head. Secondly, because the setting of these punctual notations is reminiscent of the notation on a sheet of music. If you delve deeper into the meaning of the sheet, these dots even appear like braille and make it clear that even a blind person - who is not able to see art - can nevertheless feel or hear it with his senses. Just as artists can bring the unity of form, colour and beauty to the highest development, composers are able to transform this very beauty into a melody. Similarly, it should be possible, as here, to translate a musical score into the visual. The impression of the sonorously dynamic sheet is supported by sweeping black lines.