My doctoral thesis explores the epistemic complexity of mosaic as an experimental system in contemporary fine art practice and criticism
Literal Cubism (Solo Exhibition)
Podium Mozaïek
Amsterdam, NL
Curated by Senad Alic
In Literal Cubism Marcelo de Melo presents a retrospective series of enfolded paintings exploring constructive notions of the pictorial space, referencing early modernist movements such as Cubism and Constructivism as well as Minimalism and Abstract Expressionism. Through the modulation of hundreds of independent units of composition, the artist revisits the grid as an organisational mode highlighting the intrinsic connection between ancient mosaic principles and recent digital technologies. The exhibition showcases a particular way of structuring images conflating notions of pre- and post-digital aesthetic in a playful manner.
Material Modulation (Solo Exhibition)
Kunstcentrum de Kolk
Spaarndam, NL
Curated by Johanna van Steen
My main area of expertise is mosaic practice and theory
My research on the epistemic complexity of mosaic is unique in terms of re-establishing lost theoretical connections between an ancient additive methodology and current thought on artistic experimentation and multidisciplinary research. The analysis put forward by my doctoral thesis is relevant to current debates on digital aesthetics, design, sculptural practice and more importantly art education.