287 - ENZO ESPOSITO (Benevento, Italy, 1946) - Untitled (2020)

ENZO ESPOSITO (Benevento, Italy, 1946) - Untitled (2020) Mixed media and collage on paper. Dimensions: 77 × 62 cm. This abstract and gestural work features a composition of organic forms, calligraphic strokes, and overlapping chromatic surfaces, all set against a background of white, beige, and pink tones. At the top, a broad structure of curved and intersecting black lines stands out, accompanied by an intense blue stain that descends vertically and creates a striking contrast with the warm tones of the composition. On the left side, elongated forms in yellow and orange appear, defined by dark strokes and accompanied by small touches of red, while in the lower right, an arched structure of thick black and gray brushstrokes takes shape, lending solidity and balance to the composition. The combination of painting techniques and collage elements creates a surface of remarkable textural richness, where transparencies, superimpositions, spontaneous gestures, and areas of color of varying intensity coexist. The work reflects the artistic language of Enzo Esposito, an Italian artist associated with contemporary abstraction, whose practice is characterized by gestural freedom, experimentation with materials, and the interplay between drawing, painting, and space. His formal approach shows affinities with certain compositions by Cy Twombly (1928–2011), particularly in the use of calligraphic strokes, spontaneous marks, and fragmented surfaces, as well as with the work of Joan Mitchell (1925–1992), due to the expressiveness of the brushstroke, the energy of the gesture, and the relationships between chromatic patches and open spaces. These references constitute stylistic parallels and do not imply an attribution of authorship. The work is signed and dated on the reverse. Bibliography: Enzo Esposito, Edizioni Capit, Ravenna; the work is reproduced on page 96. Provenance: Galleria Il Patio, Ravenna; private collection, Verona (Italy). The artwork is in generally good ...