Zuma #16 1977

John Divola created "Zuma #16" using photography, capturing a moment that feels both constructed and found. Imagine Divola entering this derelict space, finding walls already marked, layered with history. Then he adds his own layer, these looping gestures that dance across the surface. What was he thinking, spraying these marks, like ghostly worms, against the backdrop of the ocean view? The ocean is pink! Maybe he's questioning the nature of art and reality. Is he framing the ocean? Or the graffiti? There's a conversation happening here between the artist, the space, and the unexpected beauty of the outside world. It reminds me of Gordon Matta-Clark, who made 'building cuts' to reveal space. And it makes me think about all the artists who came before. We're all in this ongoing dialogue, each adding our voice, our marks, to the walls.