Mouvement 1

Mouvement 1, from the Project Insetos by artist Leopoldo Martins, 2021.

The word “Insect” comes from the Latin word Insectum, meaning “with a notched or divided body”, or literally “cut into”, as theoretically described. Based on a deep research on those parts of insects’ bodies, Leopoldo Martins found an endless universe of mathematics, engineering and art, discovering his new three-dimensional challenges for wonderful monumental sculptures.

Furthermore, in his research Leopoldo Martins also discovered the space they share, understanding that the world that we live is completed with a wide variety of insects that share space with us.

The exhibition showcases the premises of his studies, researches and work around the micro universe that surrounds us, the universe of insects. It also introduces us to a non-stoppable movement of vibration and life, a celebration of our ecosystem, using a technique that´s been around us for over 100 years: a fine selection of beautiful serigraphs by the artist, only to be purchased online and in exclusive small edition. These serigraphs describe the movement of Insects, something intriguing the artist has been observed for many years.

The Technique

Used by artists like Andy Warhol and Robert Rauschenberg, serigraph came into its own in the 1960s with the advent of Pop Art and Op Art. What previously worked against its artistic acceptance, became a positive asset used as one of their new art supports allowing a wide use of colors.

Leopoldo Martins’ serigraphs are minimalists, using black on white to impose a wonderful effect but keeping it simple, precise and elegant!