In Wall, Gregory Kitterle uses fresco and gold leaf on panel to explore themes of texture, materiality, and contrast. The composition is dominated by a rough, textured surface of plaster-like material, its beige tones evoking the weathered patina of an ancient wall. This textured expanse is juxtaposed with a vibrant blue section that peeks through on the left, suggesting layers beneath the surface. At the top, the addition of gold leaf introduces a luminous, reflective quality, contrasting with the matte, rough textures below, and adding a sense of both opulence and decay.

The interplay between the rough and smooth surfaces creates a dialogue about permanence and impermanence, inviting viewers to contemplate the passage of time and the stories that surfaces can tell. The fresco technique amplifies this narrative, as the irregularities in texture make the wall feel aged and worn, while the gold leaf adds an element of transcendence or renewal.

This work can be loosely compared to the abstract compositions of artists like Alberto Burri, known for his use of unconventional materials and texture to convey depth and narrative. However, Kitterle’s inclusion of gold leaf introduces a different dimension, imbuing the piece with a spiritual or sacred quality, as if the wall itself holds something precious beneath its worn exterior.

Wall encapsulates Kitterle’s ability to transform simple, everyday materials into profound visual statements. Through the contrast of decay and opulence, the piece becomes a meditation on the layers of history and meaning embedded in the surfaces that surround us. The tactile quality of the fresco and the shimmering gold leaf together evoke a sense of resilience and beauty found within the passage of time.