All Gum 1979

Editor: Here we have Marcel Mariën's "All Gum," a mixed media artwork. The juxtaposition of the pale pink figure against the dark, almost classical bas-relief is striking. What do you make of this formal contrast? Curator: The composition is indeed a study in contrasts. The biomorphic figure, seemingly collaged, disrupts the conventional depth and modeling of the bas-relief. Note how the artist deploys line and form to create a visual tension. Editor: It’s almost like two distinct artistic languages are in conversation. Is the contrast intentional? Curator: Precisely. The artist intentionally exploits the disjunction between the figure and the background. The lack of integration challenges the viewer's expectations. This juxtaposition of textures, the smooth figure and the rough background, creates an unsettling visual experience. Editor: So, the point is less about harmony and more about the friction created by these opposing elements? Curator: Precisely. The value lies in how these elements interact and disrupt one another.