Sol LeWitt (1927-2008) was a prominent American artist known for his contributions to the minimalist and conceptual art movements. Sol LeWitt’s printmaking works, like his larger body of artwork, are characterised by a systematic and conceptual approach.
LeWitt’s prints often feature geometric shapes and patterns. He used basic geometric forms such as squares, rectangles, circles, and lines to create intricate compositions. His work often emphasised the simplicity and purity of these forms.
LeWitt was known for creating art through a series of instructions or algorithms. He would provide instructions to printmakers, often using a set of rules or procedures, and the final artwork would be created based on these guidelines. This approach allowed for a certain level of unpredictability and variation within a systematic framework.
Repetition and variation were central themes in LeWitt’s work. He would take a simple concept or shape and explore its various permutations and combinations, creating a sense of order and logic within the art.
LeWitt’s work is often associated with conceptual art because it places a strong emphasis on the idea or concept behind the artwork. The physical execution of the artwork is secondary to the underlying concept, and the concept can be articulated through written instructions.
