Original Fibonacci 2001

Jennifer Bartlett created this painting on enameled steel plates. Her approach is rooted in process, in this case a kind of modular construction. The material and the way it is applied influences the appearance; you can see a grid built up of small, gestural brushstrokes. There’s a clear contrast between the industrial support and the handmade surface. The gridded structure gives a sense of overall unity. The artist built this painting up from many individual units, each one carefully enameled. This reflects a concern with labor and systems. There is an inherent tension between mass production and artisanal skill, playing with ideas about industry versus individuality. The sheer amount of work involved speaks to the artist’s commitment. It's work that challenges conventional hierarchies between fine art and craft.