Summer 2016 Vasarely Exhibition opens in Provence
Master of geometric abstract & optical art
This summer sees a triptych exhibition of the Op Art Hungarian-Franco artist, Victor Vasarely (1906-1997). From June 2nd until October 2nd, visitors will be able to view rarely seen original artworks of the artist in Avignon, Aix and Gordes.
The exhibition, 'Multiplicity' is to celebrate the 110th anniversary of the artist's birth and will present Vasarely's geometric abstract and optical art. The Musee Vouland opens it's exhibition on the 2nd June and visitors will be able to experience a retrospective comparing the museum's 17th &18th century decorative arts to Vasarely's plastic universe. The second part of the exhibition opens in Chateau de Gordes on the 11th June and the third part is being held at the Fondation Vasarely in Aix en Provence from the 16th June.
Vasarely is widely regarded as the father of Op-Art and is considered a major master of 20th century art. During the 1960’s and 70’s his optical images became part of the popular culture, having an impact on architecture, computer science, fashion, and the way we now look at things in general. Even though he achieved great fame he insisted on making his art accessible to everyone. His motto was “Art for all”.
In 1960, he ctreated his colour burst “Planetary Folklore” series of artworks. The plastic unit used “consists of two geometric elements that fit one into the other, that come together, that switch places".
Using these bicolour units with solid or contrasting colours, the artist invented the 'Alphabet Plastique' - an idea which dates back to the beginning of the century among abstract artists, the search for a universal language understandable by all.
This Plastic Alphabet opens the door to the introduction of collective art. Through the matching and transforming of shapes and shades, the artist makes a number of different illusions appear. “The use of combinations of this scale in plastic art provides a universal tool, without limiting the expression of personality such as that of ethnic identities.” In this combinatory art, elements can be coded or programmed. Vasarely used new techniques and technologies to diversify and compose new works ad infinitum. Elements can be prefabricated using industrial processes, and the works can be integrated into architecture and our urban environment.
Entrance is between 7 euro and 12 euro, and a reduced price pass is available for entry into all three exhibitions
