Mel Bochner, Right On, 2018

Artist: Mel Bochner (1940 - )
Title:Right On, 2018
Medium:Monoprint in oil paints with collage, engraving and embossment on hand-dyed Twinrocker handmade paper
Image Size:32 1/2 in x 63 in (82.6 cm x 160 cm)
Sheet Size:32 1/2 in x 63 in (82.6 cm x 160 cm)
Framed Size:approx. 40 1/2 in x 71 in (102.9 cm x 180.3)
Edition:A unique and original work.
Signature:This work is hand-signed and dated by Mel Bochner (Pittsburgh, 1940 - ) in pencil.
Condition:This work is in excellent condition.
ID #W-6285

Historical Description

Mel Bochner Right On, 2018 is a visual exploration of American vernacular language. Known for his unabashed embrace of text as the primary subject, conceptual artist choose rounded typeface in capital letters to spell out exclamatory expressions in this lively piece. Presented in an elongated landscape orientation, the shape of this stunning composition is a rare format for the artist. The exaggerated length of the sheet has narrative implications, as our gaze as the viewer travels from edge to edge, sprawling words across the 5 1/4 foot expanse.  Glistening oil paints make out the words: “RIGHT ON! YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT! NOW YOU’RE TALKING! I’LL DRINK TO THAT! YOU AIN’T WHIS-TLING DIXIE! YOU’RE NOT KIDDING! YOU BET YOUR SWEET ASS! TRUE DAT! J.”  The multicolored hand-dyed paper provides a rich background for the assortment of phrases. For this particular piece, Bochner takes great care to select each color. Upon close inspection, it can be seen that each word and punctuation is a composed of two colors of oil paints, and none of these color combinations are repeated. At times, these letters camouflage with the dyed paper background. This lack of immediate legibility encourages participation and engagement between the artwork and the viewer.

Created in 2018, Mel Bochner Right On, 2018 is a unique monoprint in oil paints with collage, engraving and embossment on hand-dyed Twinrocker handmade paper is hand-signed and dated by Mel Bochner (Pittsburgh, 1940 - ) in pencil. Mel Bochner Right On, 2018 is a unique and original work.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Mel Bochner Right On, 2018 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work).

1. Bochner, Mel. Monoprints: Mel Bochner: Words, Words, Words…New York: Two Palms, 2012. General information on Mel Bochner’s unique monoprints is discussed on pages 63-65.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.

About the Framing:
Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, Mel Bochner Right On, 2018 is presented in a complementary moulding.