Opus 73 1961

Hans Hinterreiter created this artwork of geometric abstraction, called Opus 73, using ink and gouache. The dominant symbol here is the circle, an ancient emblem of wholeness and perfection, reminiscent of mandalas seen across various cultures. Within it, notice the spiraling forms, suggesting movement and the unfolding of time. This recalls the labyrinthine patterns found in Minoan art, representing a journey into the self. The interplay of colors evokes a sense of harmony and tension. Blue, often associated with the heavens, contrasts with earthier tones, reflecting the duality of existence. Just as the ouroboros—the snake eating its tail—symbolizes eternal return, the motifs in this artwork speak to the cyclical nature of life. It’s as if Hinterreiter taps into a collective memory, resonating with primal experiences and engaging our subconscious on a profound level. The circle and spiral, archetypes of human expression, have resurfaced, evolved, and acquired new meanings throughout history.