Ut-op 1966

Giulio Paolini made this photograph, 'Ut-op,' using black-and-white film, and it captures the corner of a room, or, more accurately, a model of one. Paolini is interested in the ways artworks and galleries create a space for seeing, which is not just a physical space but also a mental space, a place for thought. This image has a sculptural quality and creates an illusionistic effect. The real room and the constructed corner become interchangeable. Looking at this photo, I imagine the artist carefully setting up this corner, playing with perspective and scale. The flat planes of the walls contrast with the implied depth of the corner, drawing attention to the act of construction itself. It reminds me of the Italian Arte Povera movement, which questioned the commercialization of art by using simple materials. Just like this, it’s clean and precise, yet open to interpretation.