THE COLLECTION
EM 3
László Moholy-Nagy (American, born Hungary. 1895-1946)
1922. Porcelain enamel on steel, 9 1/2 x 6" (24 x 15 cm). Gift of Philip Johnson in memory of Sibyl Moholy-Nagy. © 2009 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York / VG Bild-Kunst, Bonn
92.1971
2007
Moholy–Nagy's Telephone Pictures were made in Berlin via the processes of modern technology: Moholy–Nagy dictated the paintings' specifications by telephone (a relatively new invention at the time) to the foreman of a sign factory. Three paintings were made, each with identical images, but in different sizes. The telephone was a new studio tool that allowed Moholy–Nagy to produce work independent not just of his own hand but of his presence. The fact that the paintings were made by ordinary laborers demonstrates his commitment to a non–elitist approach to creative work.
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