E-35 Dr. Q 1968

Editor: Here we have Tony DeLap’s “E-35 Dr. Q” from 1968, so classic late 60s. I find its sharp, simple geometric shapes pretty calming, almost meditative. What do you make of it? Curator: Calming is a great word. For me, it’s the dance between that stark black form and the shimmering silvery background. It's almost an optical illusion – does the black bar float, or is it embedded in the silver? Do you get a sense of movement even though it’s still? It winks. Editor: I see that! And I guess that sliver of white running down the centre accentuates that, too? What's with the "Dr. Q" in the title, though? Does it mean something, or is it arbitrary? Curator: Aha, titles. DeLap often gave his works enigmatic titles like that. They are usually as precise and sharp-edged as the paintings themselves. In this work, “Dr. Q" offers an intentionally oblique association. Perhaps something intellectual, hidden, a mysterious quest, the quiet, sharp brilliance we can miss. DeLap wanted the viewer to bring themselves to the work. Editor: That's interesting. The idea that a piece can almost… dare you to think something about it. I was too concerned at first whether I should ‘get it’ or not. I think I have permission now to make my own meaning. Curator: Precisely! It’s not about right or wrong; it's about feeling and seeing differently each time you look. Editor: That makes minimalism sound a lot more appealing than I thought it was! It's really refreshing to think that art isn’t about searching for one answer but many. Curator: Indeed! And isn't it interesting how just a few shapes can hold so many possible stories?