ST 19-70 1970

Nassos Daphnis made this artwork, ST 19-70, using synthetic polymer paint, likely applied to a prepared canvas or board. The hard edges and flat, unmodulated surfaces speak to an interest in industrial production and precision, far removed from the gestural brushwork that preceded it. The shapes appear pure and unyielding, almost as if they were stamped or cut out rather than painted by hand. This effect is achieved not only through skill but also through the inherent properties of acrylic paint, which dries quickly and evenly. The painting’s visual impact lies in its bold simplicity. We might consider the social context in which Daphnis was working; this was a period of great technological advancement, and the materials and processes he employed reflect a desire to embrace the aesthetics of the modern world. By challenging traditional notions of artistic expression, Daphnis invites us to consider the relationship between art, industry, and the changing landscape of contemporary life.