The AMI Story
2007. After more than fifty years, studying, making and teaching art, I am retired and living in Germany. I am exploring graphic software and experimenting with repeat patterns and thrust vectors for gestural abstracts. AMI appeared in my sketches, complete, with a name. A unique and perfect, asymmetrical, biomorphic shape. It fascinated me, then; and the fascination persists. AMI is compelling and mysterious.
The pencil sketch was scanned and refined with graphic software. A large version was printed on heavy paper and trimmed with scissors. This paper AMI shape was used, over time, to make the first eight AMI paintings.
AMI, was used to make multiple variations of three different repeat pattern designs; a heart shape graphic design; and a group of tear-drop shape Boteh / Buta, graphic designs.
The first four paintings were minimal, hard edge, painted black lines on a white field. I wanted to present the AMI concept in its unadulterated form. AMI 5 and 6, have two overlapping AMI outlines made with black graphic tape on a white field. The graphic tape makes a thin constant width, hard edge line. AMI 7, is white on a gray field; with no lines. AMI 8, started with black graphic tape contour lines on a white field. Then, it was painted over with a dark gray; the graphic tape was removed, to expose the white underneath.
Integrated flat panel frames were designed and built for each painting. They were painted with a thick glossy finish, by a company that makes furniture . The first eight paintings are mounted on their flat panel frames with screws, anchors and extruded aluminum hardware.
2019. I began to realize, that the eight AMI paintings had the potential to become a coherent and valuable exhibition. AMI 6 was repainted, with glossy red, blue and white, with wider graphic tape lines. AMI 2 received a new glossy purple background; and AMI 3 background was repainted red. AMI 1 was repainted with deep glossy red and blue, with no lines. AMI 4, got two deep glassy green colors, with no lines. The minimal essence of AMI endures; and the intense colors add delightful characteristics.
AMI 9 and 10, were created to enhance the group. They are larger; and they are influenced more by Pop, Op and design than by minimalist ideas.
The AMI paintings are heavy and easily damaged; so, a custom box was built for each one. I call them AMI transport pods. They have interesting characteristics of their own. They may be used to transport or store the painting; or, as furniture. They make good benches or tables. The ten pods make two benches that may be used in an exhibition. A single pod may be used with any number of support structures; pallets, boxes, tables, etc.
I have focused on building a complete package: paintings, pods, identification and authentication, websites and story. The ten AMI paintings are historically relevant, conceptually sophisticated, expertly crafted, unique and rare. They are interesting, amiable companions.
Next: Promotion, Exhibition and Sales. Build and fund MXK Foundation. Assistance for beneficiaries. A farm. Perhaps, a research institute for harmonious evolution and wisdom. ;-)
