Modulation 372 (theme 82 variation) 

Julio Le Parc, who was born in Argentina in 1928, made this artwork, Modulation 372 (theme 82 variation), with paint on canvas. As a co-founder of the Parisian Groupe de Recherche d’Art Visuel in 1960, Le Parc explored the perception of the artwork by the viewer, and the effects of movement and light. Here, monochromatic tones and geometric forms create an optical experience that explores visual perception. The repeating pattern of the pyramidal grid invites viewers to engage with the artwork physically as they try to follow the patterns. Le Parc once stated his aim was to “offer the spectator new possibilities of action”. Le Parc's work, which emerged during a period of political upheaval and social change in Latin America and Europe, challenges traditional notions of art. The grid of raised bumps could be interpreted as the masses uniting, or perhaps evokes a sense of anonymity and uniformity. The monochrome palette further strips away any sense of individuality or identity. This work asks us to consider the role of art in shaping our perceptions and understanding of the world around us.