For Immediate Release

Massimo Antonaci
Light

February 17 – March 25, 2000

Luhring Augustine is pleased to present new work by Massimo Antonaci, opening on February 17th.  This show in the second gallery will consist of four new works constructed of glass and tar. The show, titled Light, is based on concepts derived from the pythagorean equation.  Antonaci uses the equation for the right triangle as a metaphysical diagram for the process of achieving transcendence.

Antonaci uses simple materials, in this case glass and tar, to reference the profound. Antonaci describes the cyclical nature of the formation of glass as an example of transcendence; “Glass is created out of the crumbling of mountains into sand.  Sand combines with lead and is transformed into glass through the action of fire.  In a way, glass is a reflection of the mountain, but from the inside.”  He also writes: “Symbolically the work may be perceived as a channel for light…This is a lighter light; a light that in its ascension loses its heaviest particles…In the pieces where the color is totally absent, the eye perceives the Ether, the light that has transcended all forms.”  Whereas the light channeled by the glass symbolizes transcendence, the base of tar is the opposite. It captures and absorbs light, creating depth with its magmatic quality. The tar represents an elemental physicality.

Massimo Antonaci is an internationally known and collected artist, having shown in Milan, Paris, London, New York and Germany, since 1980.  A comprehensive catalogue of his work, Massimo Antonaci from 1987 to 1994, has been published by Skira, Milan. 

For further information please contact Claudia Altman-Siegel at 212-206-9100 or look on our website, www.luhringaugustine.com