The artwork, titled “4096 Colours,” was created by Gerhard Richter in the year 1974. It belongs to the movements of Op Art and Conceptual Art and is categorized within the abstract genre. This piece is a seminal representation of Richter’s exploration of color theory and systematic composition.
The artwork consists of a dense grid of small, uniformly shaped squares, each filled with a distinct color. The combination of these squares creates a vibrant mosaic-like surface that pulsates with dynamic energy. The meticulous arrangement of colors appears randomized, yet it intricately creates visual rhythms and patterns upon closer inspection. The overall effect is a complex, optical interaction that challenges the viewer’s perception, embodying the principles of Op Art. This methodical yet seemingly chaotic formation underscores Richter’s conceptual approach to art-making, where the systematic generation of forms conveys a deeper exploration into the nature of visual perception and randomness.
