Mel Bochner, Oh Well, 2022

Artist: Mel Bochner (1940 - )
Title:Oh Well, 2022
Medium:Monotype in oil with collage, engraving and embossment on handmade paper
Image Size:31 5/8 in x 93 3/4 in (80.3 cm x 238.1cm)
Sheet Size:31 5/8 in x 93 3/4 in (80.3 cm x 238.1cm)
Framed Size:36 1/4 in x 98 1/4 in (92.1 cm x 249.6 cm)
Edition:A unique and original monoprint in oil paint
Signature:This work is hand-signed by Mel Bochner (Pittsburgh, 1940 - ) in pencil on verso.
Condition:This work is in excellent condition.
ID #w-7998

Historical Description

Mel Bochner Oh Well, 2022 is a bold and visually appealing work of art that captures immediately captures your attention. This striking piece conjures up a soothing sensation yet there is an energetic quality that reverberates through this entire work. Monumental in size, this piece forces the viewer to gravitate towards the work to gain a closer look into the depth of color that resolves in each letter. The verdant hues completely saturate your field of vision as the relief-like letters balance the rhythm. The mint colors mixed in with a pop of bright orange, berry, and cerulean accentuate the flow of what you read. From the top left all the way to the bottom right, Mel Bochner’s words read in such a passionate and playful manner. Created in a landscape orientation, nine lines of text that start from the top left corner wrap at the middle and lead down the left and continue on from the middle top right which read: “OH WELL | THAT’S THE WAY IT GOES | IT IS WHAT IT IS | WHAT CAN YOU DO?| WHAT WILL BE WILL BE | DON’T GET YOUR HOPES UP | SHIT HAPPENS | NOTHING EVER CHANGES | JUST LEARN TO LIVE WITH IT…|” with each word alternating in color from the preceding. His fascination with words and color provides a never-ending lively twist to his mastery as an accomplished artist. The visual intensity renders itself a potent work of fine art that equally exudes joy and delight.

Created in 2022, this monotype in oil with collage, engraving and embossment on handmade paper hand-dyed Twinrocker handmade paper is hand signed and dated by Mel Bochner (Pittsburgh, 1940 - ) in the lower right. Mel Bochner Oh Well, 2022 is a unique and original work.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
1. Bochner, Mel. Monoprints: Mel Bochner: Words, Words, Words…New York: Two Palms, 2012. A similar monotype in a different color and size listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 8.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.

About the Framing:
Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, Mel Bochner Oh Well, 2022 is presented in a complementary moulding.