In Budget Cut, Gregory Kitterle transforms a seemingly whimsical scene into a complex visual narrative through his use of fresco on panel. The composition is dominated by shades of green, with textured curtains or draped fabric forming a backdrop that evokes a stage-like setting. At the center, a thin pedestal supports a circular, gold-like object reminiscent of a coin or symbolic artifact, with a red and yellow-striped brush or tool extending outward. The juxtaposition of this delicate, almost theatrical arrangement against a rough, textured background conveys a sense of tension and fragility, suggesting themes of resource scarcity or limitation, as hinted at by the title.
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In Budget Cut, Gregory Kitterle transforms a seemingly whimsical scene into a complex visual narrative through his use of fresco on panel. The composition is dominated by shades of green, with textured curtains or draped fabric forming a backdrop that evokes a stage-like setting. At the center, a thin pedestal supports a circular, gold-like object reminiscent of a coin or symbolic artifact, with a red and yellow-striped brush or tool extending outward. The juxtaposition of this delicate, almost theatrical arrangement against a rough, textured background conveys a sense of tension and fragility, suggesting themes of resource scarcity or limitation, as hinted at by the title.
The textured surface, characteristic of Kitterle’s fresco technique, adds depth and a sense of age to the composition. Gold leaf elements add flashes of light and luxury to an otherwise muted palette, emphasizing contrasts between the precious and the precarious. The title Budget Cut hints at economic constraints or decisions, reflected visually in the fragmented and patchwork feel of the scene, as though pieces are being held together despite limited means.
Kitterle’s work here recalls the tension seen in certain works by Kurt Schwitters, who used collage to create layered narratives about scarcity and resilience. However, while Schwitters focused on found objects, Kitterle's use of fresco and surface imperfections lends a sense of timelessness and history, making the work feel rooted in the present yet timelessly relevant. The arrangement of objects in the scene, especially the gilded object and brush, invites speculation on themes of value, artistic practice, and the careful balance of resources within creative endeavors.
Budget Cut stands as a subtle commentary on the intersection of art, economy, and survival. Kitterle’s playful yet poignant use of materials and symbolic elements encourages viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between abundance and scarcity, and how even the smallest cuts or adjustments can ripple through a creative process. Through his layered textures, Kitterle creates a scene that feels both precarious and deliberate, urging contemplation of how we prioritize and value the resources around us.
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