
Searches and Seizures ( Rush to Relics ), 2017
Alfonse Pagano
Graphite on Paper
Original Artwork, 60.96 x 91.44 cm
apagano
About Alfonse Pagano
About the Product
Titled "Search and Seizures," this monochromatic piece presents an abstract rendition of the American flag. The artwork is marked by irregular, dynamic, and overlapping black strokes that contribute to its textured and chaotic appearance. The familiar horizontal stripes and field of stars are both recognizable yet distorted, enhancing the abstract quality.
The composition delivers a rough and expressive aesthetic, with a palpable sense of motion and intensity conveyed through the varied brush or pencil strokes. This piece serves as a visually striking interpretation, challenging traditional representations and evoking a profound, contemplative response.
Rush to Relics Series are deconstructions and manipulation of the American flag with the intention to transform them into something physically and emotionally separated from their beginnings. The flags are first deconstructed, aged, torn apart and some are installations or sculpture pieces and others are reconstructed in collage form, photographed, printed on rice paper laminated to canvas, where I may finish off with a pen, paint, graphite and liquid polymer. This work provides a path to process my disbelief at the accelerating, heartbreaking madness following the U.S. 2016 election.
This piece was created during the Trump, administration and I hoped to express and convey the feeling of chaos and destruction of our American democratic values.













