“6 – 111”

008

Canvas on stretcher, 40х40 cm (15.74”x15.74”)

Oil

Arithmism

Kyiv, 2012.

Magic square 6x6 stands somewhat aside among the others. It is matrix of natural numbers from 1 to 36, their sums equal to 111 by rows, columns and diagonals. According to the “mechanics of celestial spheres”, magic square 6x6 corresponds to the sphere of Sun. It is quite interesting to note that the sum of all the numbers of the square equals to 666…

Apocalyptic associations of this number have been spellbinding minds. Many ttempts has been undertaken to spell it out. One of possible directions of deciphering – to explain this number numerically – by means of other numbers which form “666” by some operations on them. Magic square 6x6 represents exactly this kind of opportunity.

There are only number at this painting which stresses availability of pure “numerical” approach. Peculiar background, on which the numbers are presented, symbolically shows some mystic, deep violet-blue-greenish space which is crossed by vivid, yellow-orange line surrounded by numerous small whirl motions and two much bigger, almost concentric whirls. All these eddies and the mainstream line resemble number “6” and might invoke associations with whirlwind stream of events, its mystery and final goal still unclear.

Number “111”, which is row, column and diagonal sum of the matrix, can be read on this background with its light, half-transparent silhouettes. The numbers of the matrix are more light and dense, and seem to float over the background and “111” number, as if they are arrayed at the edge of answering to the aenigma…