Plane/Figure Series C (Double Panel)

Mangold first gained critical attention in the 1960's for his "Minimalist" paintings and continues to be internationally acclaimed for his elegant work. He is best known for his deeply colored canvasses, often physically divided into several parts, which utilize graceful geometric shapes to encourage exploration of the picture plane. Plane/ Figure Series C (Double Panel) is unique among the nine other works in the series in its use of only one color. The two ellipses, crossing over the physical divide to delicately touch at a single point, serve to create a tension between Figure and Plane. Issues of space and perception are subtly suggested but left to the viewer to explore further.