OMNI-evolution: ROBERTO CORTÁZAR

Roberto Cortázar's Omni is a project that arises in the midst of the intersection of the arts and science, and that is an original attempt to interrogate the (dis)entanglements of the formal and the spatial. Through a recognition of the diverse and multifaceted deconstruction of form proposed by the avant-garde movements of the last century, Omni proposes a novel inquiry into form that does not begin in the midst of abstract space but in the physical universe itself. In that sense, Omni defies the avant-garde by disclosing science—and astrophysics in particular—as the key to resolve the formal queries of 20th century art.

One of the aesthetic events that detonated Cortazár’s reflections on the deconstruction of form was his encounter, and subsequent analyses and explorations of, José Clemente Orozco’s El desmembrado [The Dismembered Man] (1947). Orozco’s modernist dismemberment was the paradigm of formal deconstruction that prompted Cortázar to consider the necessity of an astrophysical approximation in order to grasp the intricacies of figuration in the aesthetic realm.

In line with the latter interrogation and as a result of extensive research on spatial transformation, Omni presents Cortázar’s latest exercises aimed at disclosing the infinitely complex and immensely beautiful forms that are available in the universe through the use of computational technology. In Cortázar’s hands, digitalization and computation become tools that—alongside the knowledge of science, philosophy, politics, and other disciplines—provide us with new insights into our communal reality and help us attain an aesthetic understanding of the universe that brings into view our shared present and our common humanity.

Similarly to how the science fiction giant Isaac Asimov once introduced the “Three laws of robotics”, Sebastian Errazuriz now presents us: “The 10 laws of human creativity”. A set of commandments for all who wish to develop works at our species highest potential.

Simon Miccio Gallery is incredibly excited to present this new exhibition of works by artist Roberto Cortazar. This event is not just a commemoration of his exceptional work, but also a call to action and springboard for panel talks and events in which the Aspen community can focus and expand on the unique qualities of human imagination.