Rules of Inference 1974

Mel Bochner’s work presents us with a stark black surface punctuated by constellations of white dots. The configurations evoke a sense of order, reminiscent of ancient systems used to map the heavens and predict earthly events. Consider the mandala, a cosmic diagram used in various spiritual traditions. We see its echo in the circular arrangement of dots in this artwork. But here, the mandala is dissected and rearranged. Bochner's scattered points prompt us to question the very nature of order and knowledge. Throughout history, humanity has sought to impose structure on the chaos of existence, yet the subconscious mind often resists such rigid categorization. This piece invites us to confront the tension between our desire for order and the inherent uncertainties of the world. It is a silent, potent challenge to our ingrained cognitive frameworks, a primal encounter.