Jan Vercruysse

1991

Print, 750 x 480 mm.
Materials: ink, paper (Vélin d'Arches)

Collection: Collection M HKA, Antwerp (Inv. no. BK006098).

Fontaine/Lustre [Fountain/Sheen] is a printed photo reproduction showing a detail of a fountain [left]. The picture [four-color] was reversed and printed in black and white [right], which creates a strong contrast. This is emphasized by the text and the many puns contained herein. By playing with meaning the artist emphasizes also certain elements as the reversal and the verticality of the two photos.

The work is part of a series of prints that Jan Vercruysse made between 1975 and 1991. It is always about books and catalogs that may be considered in itself a work of art. The prints are a form of visual poetry, actually a youth activity of the artist. All elements are as always prepared with the utmost care and have an enigmatic character.

In his work alludes Vercruysse often on art history, but he leaves the interpretation open to suggestion. He points photography as reproduction from reality, the works are reproductions of itself.