Lot 95: Rudi Mantofani , b. 1973 Cetak Negatif (Negative Print) acrylic on canvas

signed and dated 2007-2008 lower right; signed, titled Cetak Negatif and dated 2007-2008 on the reverse acrylic on canvas

170 by 250cm.; 66¾ by 98¼in.

Rudi Mantofani is an expert at playing with the subtlety of words and double entendre. With Cetak Negatif (Negative Print), he introduces a new imagery into in his visual repertoire. A departure from his customary use of mundane objects that are easily recognisable in daily life, Rudi turns to text in the current work. A stark, cloudless sky and a lush carpet of emerald rainforest provide a clear background for the letters "U", "S", "A", whose outline stands out against the horizon with a bold and indomitable presence.

In this provocative work, a fantasy world is juxtaposed against its realistic interpretation, thus humanising a landscape that seems larger than life. Perspective holds an important role in how the block of letters is interpreted. The immediate effect is one that shows the USA as a colossal billboard of supremacy and might, but a closer observation reveals a massive portion of trees and soil unearthed, leaving craters so deep they remind the viewer of the dramatic consequence power leaves in its wake. Together, the cavities form the negative print version of "USA".

With the current events throughout the world, it is easy to view the USA as an emblem of power, supremacy, authority, and righteousness and the reference is indeed well-chosen for their accessibility to the onlooker. However, overt criticism is not Rudi Mantofani's intent. At the heart of this work is an observation of how mankind often focuses so much on their conviction of what is right (or what they believe is right), that something that is perceived as positive can yield a negative result. This issue relates to various issues, among them war, global warming, and the financial crisis; whether in order to uphold idealism, develop industry or generate wealth, they all began with worthy objectives which became lost in translation.

The externally visible progress we have achieved as intellectuals throughout the ages are dwarfed in comparison by our lack of internal development as human beings. Despite our technological advancement, our souls have not evolved much since the Middle Ages. Humanity is still in danger of being consumed by greed, power, and egoism. Yet, as the lush remaining forest suggests, all is not lost. By respecting the earth, reviving spirituality and living with more tolerance and compassion, perhaps mankind will find dignity, honour and eventually rediscover its humanity.