Seeing in Phosphene

For a time-limited print edition, José Parlá spins memories of a life in art into abstract calligraphy.

Seeing in Phosphene sees Parlá draw on ocular phenomena as a source of inspiration. Caused by lig...

For a time-limited print edition, José Parlá spins memories of a life in art into abstract calligraphy.

Seeing in Phosphene sees Parlá draw on ocular phenomena as a source of inspiration. Caused by light, sound or pressure, ‘phosphene’ describes illusory colours and shapes that come from inside the eye. Rubbing closed eyes and seeing stars are common examples. By looking at the sun through the skylight of his Brooklyn studio and blinking, Parlá finds forms – spots, lines, riding colours – for his energetic paintings. In turn, these forms summon moments – the city, my family and friends, places I’ve been – from his storied past.

Available for 24 hours only, the edition of signed, varnish-sealed prints faithfully recreate an original painting. Set against a vibrant gradient of red, orange and yellow, densely-layered strokes become illegible and evade specificity. Instead, Parlá encourages his viewer to read the surface for themselves – to find their own meaning, and draw their own conclusions.

Free shipping is included on all orders. For more on sensory inspirations, read the accompanying journal.

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José Parlá
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Edition details
Dimensions
Unframed: 53.6cm x 83.8cm
Framed: 61.6cm x 91.8cm x 3.3cm
Framing
Prints can be ordered float-mounted with reversible conservation tape in a bespoke wooden frame, painted matte black with visible grain and glazed with 99% UV-proof cast acrylic. Arrives complete with adjustable metal hanging hardware.
Medium
UV pigment print with a matte varnish silkscreen seal on 410gsm Somerset Tub Sized Radiant White paper
Authentication
COAs will come with a custom emboss Parla logo
Finishing
Signed by the artist on the front
Release date
May 17, 2023

From the artist

Behind the scenes