Julian Stanczak: Equatorial, 1978, acrylic on canvas, 60 3/6 by 60 1/8 inches; courtesy of the artist and Mitchell-Innes and Nash.
The wonders of color theory continue to fascinate Julian
Stanczak, as evidenced by his imposing paintings at Mitchell-Innes & Nash, in which pigments seem to morph and vibrate. The Polish-born artist studied under pioneering color theorist Josef Albers at Yale in the 1950s, becoming a strong Op art proponent. In these 12 paintings, spanning over 50 years, meticulous geometries complement seamlessly blended hot and cool, sweet and acidic tones. The vibrant canvases seem to pulsate, creating visual fields of unexpected depth. But be careful: the works strain as well as delight the eye. Inviting the viewer closer for extended contemplation, they can also induce vertigo.