spotlight
An Obsession with Structure The eye can be easily deceived: In the right hands lines, colors, angles, and shapes can disorient, energize, and even pull a viewer right into a work of art. Expect just such an experience at Hans Hinterretier: A Theory of Form and Color, opening on July 9 at the Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery. Curated by Gallery Director Joseph Mella, Untitled, 1967, Serigraph, 12" diameter the exhibit features 39 of the 48 paintings and prints by Hans Hinterretier belonging to the University’s permanent collection. Vanderbilt University acquired this collection, one of the largest in the United States, through the generosity of 1953 alumnus Carl van der Voort. Hinterretier began his career in art as an architect, but by age 27 he decided to shift his attention to painting. While he changed media, Hinterretier’s works on paper and canvas reveal the artist’s obsession with structure. Just as an architect uses steel beams, glass, and concrete to construct an inhabitable space, Hinterretier uses color, lines, and shapes to create a place where logic and beauty meet. He was interested in the connection between art and science and developed a theory by which he made visual art using scientific and mathematical principles. The result may seem “over your head,” but the allure and elegance are undeniable. Hans Hinterretier: A Theory of Form and Color will be on view from July 9 to September 12. The Fine Arts Gallery is located in Cohen Memorial Hall, 1220 21st Ave. S. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Tuesday-Friday 12-4 p.m. and Saturday 1-5 p.m. www.vanderbilt.edu/gallery
Untitled, 1974, Lithograph, 14 7/8" x 18"