The artwork entitled “Flash” is a sculpture created by John McCracken in 2002. It is representative of the Light and Space movement as well as Minimalism, which are influential art movements that emphasize simplicity and the phenomenological experience of light and space within the artistic context. This particular genre of McCracken’s work showcases the use of geometric forms and pure color as a means of engaging the viewer.
The sculpture itself is a singular, elongated geometric form, standing vertically in an almost totemic manner. The surface appears to be impeccably smooth, featuring a lustrous, vibrant red finish that captures and reflects light. The simplicity of the form, combined with the intense saturation of color and the glossy finish, exemplifies the minimalist approach, stripping away any extraneous details to focus on the pure essence of the form and how it coexists with the space around it. The meticulous execution and finish of the artwork create an interactive experience, as the perfectly flat color and reflective surface invite viewers to both see and be seen within the context of the work.
