CTA 102 #1 1966

This striking piece by Victor Vasarely presents a mesmerizing array of circles that shift in color, creating an illusion of depth and movement. This arrangement speaks to the ancient symbol of the mandala, a cosmic diagram representing wholeness and the cyclical nature of existence. We see echoes of this form in ancient cultures, from the rose windows of Gothic cathedrals to the medicine wheels of indigenous North Americans. Though Vasarely's modern rendering is abstract, the psychological impact remains: the concentric circles draw the eye inward, inviting contemplation and a sense of centeredness. This pull towards the center might remind us of the collective unconscious, that shared reservoir of symbols and archetypes that transcends individual experience. The shifting colors, ranging from vibrant yellows to earthy browns, evoke a sense of transformation, mirroring the ever-changing nature of the cosmos and our own inner landscapes. A symbol that continues to evolve, mirroring the human quest for understanding and meaning, resurfacing in new forms across time.