Bellas 1985

Victor Vasarely's 'Bellas' uses geometric shapes to create a sense of movement and depth. The black and white checkerboard pattern warps and bends, suggesting an understanding of artmaking as a process of visual experimentation. The cool blue background emphasizes the stark contrast between the black and white squares. The texture is smooth and precise, almost like it was printed rather than painted by hand. The lines are sharp, creating a clean, almost clinical feel. Looking at the central diamond shape, notice how it seems to both protrude and recede at the same time. This dynamic interplay messes with your perception, questioning your expectations of space. Vasarely's work resonates with that of Josef Albers, who also explored the interplay of color and form. Both artists invite us to question the very nature of perception, reminding us that art is not just about what we see, but how we see it.