Archie Hayes 
Felice Varini: A Distinctive Artist in Geometric Perspective Art
Felice Varini is an accomplished artist hailing from Switzerland. Over the course of his illustrious career, he has gained international recognition for his unique approach to art, which intersects the realms of geometry, architecture, and space.
In the year 2000/2001, Varini’s exceptional talent did not go unnoticed, as he was honored with a nomination for the prestigious Marcel Duchamp Prize. This accolade is named after the famed French-American artist Marcel Duchamp, who is often associated with the Dada and Surrealist movements. The recognition bestowed upon Varini speaks volumes about his innovative approach and the appreciation it has garnered in the art world.
At the core of Varini’s work is his technique of creating “perspective-localized” paintings. These are not just any regular paintings; they challenge the viewer’s perception and interaction with space. Using rooms, hallways, and other architectural elements as his canvas, Felice employs projector-stencil methods to map out and execute his designs. The result? Paintings that seem fragmented when viewed from a particular angle but come together to form a cohesive geometric shape when viewed from a specific vantage point. This interplay between the viewer’s location and the artwork adds a dynamic and interactive component to his pieces.
Joël Koskas, a mathematics professor and respected art critic, once made a striking observation about Varini’s work, stating, “A work of Varini is an anti-Mona Lisa.” This statement is profound and contrasts Varini’s art with one of the most recognized paintings in the world, the Mona Lisa. While the Mona Lisa, with her enigmatic smile, invites viewers to a deep, introspective analysis, Varini’s works demand a different kind of attention. They challenge viewers to move, to explore, and to change their perspectives in order to fully appreciate the artwork.
Varini’s canvas isn’t limited to indoor spaces. He has taken his art beyond the confines of rooms to vast urban spaces. Streets, building exteriors, and walls become the backdrop for his geometric masterpieces. These large-scale projects don’t just transform the appearance of the architectural structures they are painted on; they redefine the way pedestrians and viewers experience and navigate through the urban environment.
In a world where art often becomes static and confined to galleries, Felice Varini pushes the boundaries and turns everyday spaces into interactive art exhibitions. His ability to intertwine the principles of geometry with the organic nature of architecture and urban planning has secured his place as one of the most inventive artists of his generation.
In addition to his groundbreaking work, Varini’s influence can be seen in the inspiration he has provided for emerging artists and in academic discussions that intersect art, mathematics, and urban design. His approach, techniques, and philosophy continue to spark debates and studies, bridging the gap between different disciplines and challenging conventional notions of art and space.
In summary, Felice Varini is more than just an artist. He is an innovator, a visionary, and a master of his craft, who has transformed the way we perceive and interact with the spaces around us. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape and inspire the world of art for years to come.
