Würfel 1995

James Licini made ‘Würfel’ which is German for 'cube', out of steel. The surfaces are quite worked, almost as if Licini wanted to emphasize the materiality of the steel: its weight, density, and the way it interacts with light. The palette is tonal and reduced to shades of gray, almost monochromatic, which contributes to the sense of gravity and industrial elegance. I am really drawn to the cubic volume to the left and lower of the piece. It is the lightest element in the composition, and it is here we see the most evidence of mark making. Vertical lines, with some horizontal interruptions, almost as if the steel has been ‘combed’ in some way. It has this really interesting, almost atmospheric effect, which contrasts with the brutal nature of the material. Something about this piece reminds me of the work of Donald Judd; I think they both found ways to achieve a kind of sublime presence through very simple means. Ultimately, 'Würfel' invites us to consider the possibilities of form and material.