Untitled (Twenty) 1921

Here we have Lajos Kassak's 'Untitled (Twenty)', a collage assembled in 1921 from paper and ink. The piece presents a dynamic interplay of geometric shapes and textual fragments on a textured background. The composition is anchored by a large circle overlaid with squares and rectangles in tones of red, black, and grey, creating a visually arresting, almost confrontational aesthetic. Kassak's use of collage and geometric abstraction reflects the influence of Constructivism and Dadaism, movements that sought to challenge traditional artistic conventions. The juxtaposition of textual elements with abstract forms can be interpreted as a semiotic system, where each component functions as a sign. The overlaying of shapes creates tensions that destabilize conventional modes of representation, inviting the viewer to actively decode the artwork’s meaning. Note the way the stark contrasts and intersecting lines create a sense of movement and tension, embodying the avant-garde spirit of the early 20th century. This work, therefore, is more than mere aesthetics. It's a philosophical statement, challenging fixed meanings and engaging with new ways of thinking about space, perception, and representation.