Sol LeWitt was an American artist known for his significant contributions to the development of conceptual art and minimalism. Graduating in 1949 from Syracuse University, his early artistic explorations were influenced by the works of artists such as Piet Mondrian and Kazimir Malevich.
LeWitt's artistic career gained momentum during the 1960s, a time when he began to develop his signature style and artistic philosophy. He became a pivotal figure in the conceptual art movement, which challenged traditional notions of art by prioritizing ideas and concepts over material objects. LeWitt believed that art could exist solely as a set of instructions or guidelines, and the actual execution of the artwork became secondary.
Throughout his career, LeWitt's work was exhibited extensively, both nationally and internationally, and he received numerous prestigious awards and accolades. His contributions to the art world left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of artists to explore new possibilities in conceptual art, minimalism, and installation art.
With Nine Pointed Stars, the most complex of the “Pointed Star” series executed in 1996, Lewitt employs his trademark systematic use of grids, geometric shapes, and precise mathematical formulas to establish a framework for his composition. Nine Pointed Stars is composed of 36 individually printed panels in every possible two-part combination of white/gray/black/red/yellow/blue. The repeated patterns generate a mesmerizing visual rhythm that capture the viewer's attention and challenge perception of space and form.
Pakesch, Peter, Editor, Sol Lewitt: Wall, Published on the occasion of the exhibition at Kunsthaus Graz, Austria, Feb. 28 – May 2, 2004, Five Pointed Star and Three Pointed Star editions illustrated.