Aluminum collage USA, 1963 Conrad Marca-Relli (1913–2000) – American artist of Italian descent Signature incised by the artist on lower right, recto, with artist’s surname, title, and dimensions written in black paint on verso. “Kootz” scratched into upper center of verso of work. Provenance: Hokin Gallery, Inc., Palm Beach, Florida Work dimensions: 34 ½ x 26 ¼ in (87.63 x 66.68 cm) Framed dimensions: 35 ⅛ x 26 ⅞ x 1 in (89.22 x 68.26 x 2.54 cm) Very good condition. A work wrought in the artist’s preferred medium, collage, Conrad Marca-Relli’s “M-8-63” combines materials reminiscent of architectural structure and industry with a gentle, almost painterly touch and careful conceptual framework. Here, aluminum shapes both hard-edged and subtly curved interlock to craft a complex, nuanced composition of ambiguous subject, but with the suggestion of a real-life figurative source. Marca-Relli is noted for his innovative take on collage and for his remarkable efforts to elevate the medium, ultimately paving the way for later experimentation. Conrad Marca-Relli (American, of Italian descent, 1913–2000) Conrad Marca-Relli was among the first and most important representatives of Abstract Expressionism of the New York School. After Marca-Relli had emigrated in 1927 with his family to New York, he began his studies at the Cooper Union Institute. He met the artists Franz Kline, Willem de Kooning and John Graham. After the Second World War, he joined the Downtown Group and the avant-garde scene of Greenwich Village artists. Marca-Relli’s preferred technique was the collage. His works were shown, among others, on the Venice Biennale and at documenta in Kassel. Condition In overall very good condition, with minor scratches and adhesive residue on surface typical of medium. Shipping costs excl. statutory VAT and plus 2,5% (+VAT) shipping insurance. Starting Price : 40000