2 Rot: 1 Rot 1971

Gunter Fruhtrunk’s “2 Rot: 1 Rot” presents us with an intense interplay of horizontal bands, predominantly in red, green, and black. These seemingly simple stripes are far from mere decoration; they resonate with historical and psychological depth. Consider how similar patterns have appeared across cultures, from the textiles of ancient civilizations to the heraldic emblems of medieval Europe. Stripes, in particular, have often symbolized boundaries or divisions, whether societal or cosmic. In this composition, the red bands could evoke primal energies, passion, or even warning. Reflect upon the recurring use of stripes in various contexts through history. Think of their appearance in military uniforms or prison garb, altering their symbolic meaning entirely. The oscillation between these meanings perhaps hints at a deeper psychological tension, a subconscious grappling with order and chaos, control and freedom. The intensity of these colors, juxtaposed in such a stark manner, engages us on a deeply emotional level. The cyclical nature of symbols ensures they continually resurface, evolving and adapting, inviting endless reinterpretations across time.