Acrilico n. 12 1976

Editor: So, we're looking at Bice Lazzari's "Acrilico n. 12" from 1976, created with acrylic paint. It's primarily made of structured lines and blocks and, honestly, I find it incredibly soothing. The precision, the rhythm of the verticals... it almost feels like a minimalist cityscape or even a musical score. What's your take? Curator: Soothing, yes, like a visual lullaby. I think Lazzari, especially in her later works, explored the musicality of geometric forms. Note how that singular red line ties together the composition – it's the bass clef, perhaps? Think of her as conducting an orchestra of lines, carefully orchestrated to achieve a harmonic balance. Do you see the subtle variations in texture within the blocks? Editor: I do, now that you mention it! Some of the vertical rectangles have denser line work than others. I originally saw them as identical elements. Does this have anything to do with Italian modernism at the time? Curator: Absolutely. After the Second World War, Italian artists grappled with rebuilding not just the country, but also its cultural identity. Lazzari moved from a more decorative style to geometric abstraction. These austere forms offered a fresh visual language to represent a society seeking order and progress after chaos. Are those dark, densely filled blocks at the top more prominent to you? Like, louder notes? Editor: Yeah, they do seem to be "louder." Almost like a beat. The rhythm! The rest are more muted and quiet, definitely harmonious together like musical chords! It’s made me appreciate it more as a visual symphony of lines! Thanks. Curator: And thanks to you for making me see it with fresh ears – er, eyes! Now, if only we could *hear* what it would sound like...