Relief (1964)
Painted wood
28 × 19 × 13 cm
Dedicated, signed, and dated below: for Chevalier / Very friendly / Camargo Paris 64
This intimate sculpture by Sérgio de Camargo exemplifies his exploration of light, shadow, and geometric abstraction. Composed of painted wooden elements, the piece features a rhythmic arrangement of cylindrical forms that interact dynamically with light, creating a play of shadows and depth. The dedication inscribed on the base—for Chevalier / Very friendly / Camargo Paris 64—adds a personal dimension, indicating a connection between the artist and the recipient.
Relief reflects Camargo's engagement with Constructivist principles and his interest in the spatial possibilities of sculpture. The work's compact scale and meticulous craftsmanship invite close observation, revealing the subtle variations in form and the harmonious balance achieved through repetition and variation.
Sérgio de Camargo (1930–1990) was a Brazilian sculptor renowned for his contributions to modernist sculpture. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Camargo studied at the Academia Altamira in Buenos Aires under Emilio Pettoruti and Lucio Fontana, and later pursued philosophy at the Sorbonne in Paris. His encounters with European avant-garde artists, including Constantin Brâncuși and Hans Arp, profoundly influenced his artistic development.
Camargo's work is characterized by monochromatic reliefs and sculptures that explore the interplay of light and form. Utilizing materials such as wood, marble, and bronze, he created compositions that emphasize rhythm, repetition, and spatial harmony. His innovative approach earned him international recognition, with exhibitions at the São Paulo Biennale (1965), the Venice Biennale (1966), and Documenta in Kassel (1968). Camargo's legacy endures through his contributions to the evolution of abstract sculpture in the 20th century.
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