"Structural Engineer" Painting by Mark Kostabi, acrylic on canvas

This monumental, dynamic and graphic work, entitled "Structural Engineer", was realized by the esteemed contemporary artist, Mark Kostabi, circa 1988. Set against a vibrant candy red background, the piece depicts an abstracted male figure composed of a latticework bone structure donning a fedora. He tightly grips a miniature male figure in his right hand- his supine body appears to struggle with arms akimbo and legs kicking wildly. In his left hand fingers extended, another diminutive male figure straddles the hand, seemingly holding onto it for dear life. The dominant form is composed of stylized and abstracted feet that ascend into a square form with geometric shapes within and a circular form at its center. Two arms extend from the top right and left hand corners holding the two aforementioned miniature male figures. Two more arms rise from the center of the geometric form apparently supporting the head.

The dramatic chiaroscuro coupled with the fedora evokes a wealth of art historical references (from Goya to Leger) as well as the tradition of film noir. The red background- teeming with subtle texture- offers a lovely counterpoint to the precisely executed forms that float above. With its bold forms and eye catching palette, this piece would be a winning centerpiece to any interior from Art Deco to contemporary. It is sure to appeal to discerning collectors of contemporary art looking for a piece by a 20th century great, as well as those who simply appreciate a great painting when they see one.

Mark Kostabi has designed album covers for numerous bands including The Ramones and Guns 'N' Roses. He has also collaborated with brands including Swatch Watch, Rosenthal and Alessi. Kostabi's work is represented in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum, the National Gallery in Washington D.C., the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the National Gallery of Modern Art in Rome.

The work is signed "Kostabi 1988" in the center of the composition. It comes presented in a custom polished aluminum gallery frame. Also, signed, titled and dated en verso. Excellent condition.

American, 1988

Details

ARTIST

Mark Kostabi (1960, American)

CREATION YEAR

1988

MEDIUM

Canvas, Acrylic Paint

MOVEMENT & STYLE

Modern

CONDITION

Excellent

DIMENSIONS

H 72 in. x W 54.25 in. x D 2.25 in.

H 182.88 cm x W 137.8 cm x D 5.72 cm

GALLERY LOCATION

New York, NY

REFERENCE NUMBER

LU71132973611kj