Pythagoräisches dreieck im quadrat II 1980

Max Bill’s striking abstract painting, "Pythagoräisches dreieck im quadrat II," presents a dynamic interplay of geometric forms and primary colors. At first glance, the composition appears as a square canvas dominated by a large white triangle, intersecting with blocks of red, blue, green, and orange. Bill’s construction of flat, vibrant color planes speaks to his interest in concrete art, an approach where art's essence lies in its pure form, independent of external references. The relationships between these shapes evoke a sense of spatial tension. The bold, contrasting colors emphasize the geometric structure, inviting us to consider how shapes and colors interact to create a visual equilibrium. The title references the Pythagorean theorem, hinting at an underlying mathematical structure that governs the painting’s composition. Yet, the seemingly simple arrangement engages with complex ideas about perception, order, and the relationship between art and mathematics. Bill’s work challenges fixed meanings and invites endless interpretation.