Costumed Figure c. 1950s

Andrew Bucci made this 'Costumed Figure' using what looks like ink on paper, but it’s more than just a simple drawing, isn’t it? There’s something almost architectural in the way Bucci builds up the figure with these bold stripes and checkerboard patterns. It’s like he's designing a structure, not just depicting a person. The lines and shapes, they aren’t just decorative, they're doing the work of creating form and space. Look at how the black and white checks meet the soft grey stripes. I love how the bands of tone curve and twist, creating a sense of movement and volume, but also flatten out the space. Bucci’s choice of a muted palette keeps the drawing within a tight tonal range. It reminds me a little of Bridget Riley’s Op Art, but with a kind of playful twist, like the figure is about to come alive. This piece sits nicely with the work of Stuart Davis, who had a similar approach to flattened space. The conversation continues!