ANTONI TÀPIES (1923-2012)

“I’ve chosen materials that are already expressive. And use them in a way that capitalises on their inherent qualities. In order to prevent technique from taking over I have to set traps for myself. For example I use materials that dry very fast and compel me to work at great speed. Working very quickly and spontaneously like this is my way of keeping intellect on a short rein, of keeping reason in its place, so that the unconscious can run free. Painting has returned to its origins, to an area beyond language, a mysterious world that can only be expressed in abstract symbols and images.”

Ocell (bird), Oil and scraping on cardboard, 66 x 54.5 cm, 1954. https://image.nostr.build/74824979a5cbdda5933c7d0286d053d0e367119c7c9412651cfc0829f653e118.jpg