Preview AR preview Switch to Print Switch to Digital Image Send
Details Guide Add to favorites Download Similars X-Ray Diaporama Stats

Square

Gift of the Leon Ferrari Foundation; A Graphic Revolution: Prints and Drawings in Latin America.

Explore the provocative art of León David Ferrari – Argentine conceptual artist challenging societal norms through controversial works & powerful symbolism.

The artwork displayed on this page is protected by copyright law, which means we cannot legally create or sell an identical reproduction. This protection is enforced under international agreements such as the Berne Convention and by national laws, including those outlined by the U.S. Copyright Law - Title 17.

As a respectful and legal alternative, we offer custom, hand-painted artworks inspired by the original. Our skilled and professional artists carefully study the original's style, mood, and artistic essence to create a new, unique piece that evokes the same feeling - while remaining an original creation in its own right.

This method fully complies with copyright regulations because it does not involve copying or duplicating the protected artwork. Instead, it is a creative reinterpretation - a new painting that is influenced by the original but not identical to it.

Hand Made Oil Reproduction

Hand-painted oil on canvas in your size and frame, made to order by our artists. ( Switch to Print Switch to Digital Image)

Corner sample of the P118B picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118B $10
Corner sample of the P118H picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118H $10
Corner sample of the P118W picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118W $10
Corner sample of the P438Z picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5.5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P438Z $10
Corner sample of the P508JH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P508JH $12
Corner sample of the P508YH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P508YH $12
Corner sample of the P805H picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P805H $10
Corner sample of the P805Z picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P805Z $10
Corner sample of the P919BZ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919BZ $10
Corner sample of the P919G picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919G $10
Corner sample of the P919XJ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919XJ $10
Corner sample of the P959ZH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P959ZH $10
Corner sample of the P968JZ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 6 cm wide and 4 cm thick
P968JZ $12
Corner sample of the W106C picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W106C $8
Corner sample of the W218G picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218G $10
Corner sample of the W218JH picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218JH $8
Corner sample of the W218Y picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218Y $10
Corner sample of the W307PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W307PJ $10
Corner sample of the W316G picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316G $10
Corner sample of the W316PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316PJ $8
Corner sample of the W316Y picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316Y $10
Corner sample of the W398PJ picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W398PJ $8
Corner sample of the W4111J picture frame: solid wood, 6.5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
W4111J $10
Corner sample of the W500HY picture frame: solid wood, 7 cm wide and 5 cm thick
W500HY $15
Corner sample of the W500JH picture frame: solid wood, 7 cm wide and 5 cm thick
W500JH $15
Corner sample of the W692G picture frame: solid wood, 8 cm wide and 4 cm thick
W692G $12
Corner sample of the W849H picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W849H $8
Corner sample of the W940BG picture frame: solid wood, 7.5 cm wide and 4.5 cm thick
W940BG $15
Corner sample of the W953PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
W953PJ $8

Standard
custom
CM
INCH

Pick from our preset sizes that match the artwork's original proportions.

width
height

Type the width and the height you need, to fit your frame or your wall. This is hand-painted, so for a size with a different shape the artist can paint a bit more around the picture, or cut a bit — you choose. We send you a digital mockup to approve before the painting starts. The picture shown on this page does not show the real result — only the mockup does.

Examples of what can be changed: Replace face with customer photo; Add pet (e.g., replace cat with dog); Include hidden message in background; Change background landscape or elements.
After order, WahooArt.com team will email client for instructions and provide a mockup preview

Worldwide Delivery () in 3/4 weeks instead of standard 5 weeks. (20 October). No compromise on quality.

Free Worldwide Express Shipping
High-Quality Linen Canvas
Full Shipping Insurance
Customs Tax Refund Guarantee
True Color Matching Guarantee
100-Day Return Policy (Defects Only)
100% Money-Back Guarantee
Bulk Discount Offer

Total Price

$ 272

Square

Reproduction Medium

Reproduction Size

-

Total Price

$ 272

Quick Facts

  • Location: Cleveland Museum of Art
  • Medium: Print
  • Artist: León David Ferrari
  • Dimensions: 98.3 x 98.2 cm
  • Subject or theme: Urban Landscape
  • Influences: Brazilian Exile

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
What is the primary subject matter of León David Ferrari’s ‘Square’?
Question 2:
When was the artwork ‘Square’ created?
Question 3:
Ferrari's print 'Square' utilizes what printing process?
Question 4:
The artwork’s context is rooted in Ferrari’s experience during which period?
Question 5:
What does the image description highlight about Ferrari's artistic approach?

Square | A Reflection on Geometry and Exile

León David Ferrari’s “Square,” created around 1982 during his self-imposed exile in Brazil following the military dictatorship, transcends mere geometric representation; it embodies a profound statement about confinement, perspective, and the human condition. This striking print, housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection since 2019—a gift from Ferrari's estate—immediately captivates with its deceptively simple composition: a grid of interlocking squares rendered in muted shades of gray.

The Technique: Blueprint Printing and Conceptual Depth

Ferrari employed a technique rooted in the realm of industrial design – blueprint printing – to produce this artwork. This method, utilizing photographic negatives overlaid onto tracing paper, lends an ethereal quality to the print, mirroring the fragmented view of São Paulo presented within its borders. The subtle tonal variations achieved through careful manipulation of light and shadow contribute significantly to the piece’s emotional resonance, conveying a sense of stillness amidst perceived chaos.

Historical Context: Confronting Dictatorship Through Visual Language

“Square” emerged during a turbulent period in Brazilian history marked by repressive military rule. Ferrari deliberately chose this method—a tool typically associated with technical precision—to subvert expectations and communicate his disillusionment with the regime’s control over information and representation. As part of “A Graphic Revolution: Prints and Drawings in Latin America,” showcased at the Cleveland Museum of Art in 2020, the print served as a powerful visual critique of São Paulo's urban landscape.

Symbolism: The Grid as Representation of Restriction

The dominant geometric motif—the square—functions symbolically as an emblem of confinement and limitation. Ferrari’s deliberate use of gray reinforces this interpretation, evoking feelings of austerity and detachment. However, the intricate interplay of squares suggests a more nuanced message: despite external constraints, there remains an internal space for contemplation and observation – mirroring the viewer's gaze within the artwork itself.

Emotional Impact: A Quiet Assertion of Resistance

"Square" isn’t a piece that shouts its defiance; rather, it communicates resistance through understated elegance. Ferrari’s masterful execution—combined with the print’s evocative tonal palette—creates an experience that lingers in the mind long after viewing. It stands as a testament to the artist's ability to transform technical processes into vehicles for conveying complex ideas and emotions, cementing its place as a cornerstone of Latin American conceptual art.

  • Artist: León David Ferrari
  • Born Year: 1920
  • Death Year: 2013
  • Birth City: Buenos Aires
  • Birth Country: Argentina

Ferrari’s legacy extends beyond this singular artwork, encompassing a prolific body of work characterized by provocative explorations of political and social themes. His unwavering commitment to artistic expression as a form of dissent continues to inspire artists and audiences alike.

Questions & Answers

Where can I see a preview of "Square"?

To preview a reproduction of "Square" by León David Ferrari, open the artwork's Preview page.

Where is "Square" suggested to be displayed, considering its palette?

Considering its neutrals colors, "Square" is suggested for a living room.

Is "Square" typical of what León David Ferrari usually created?

Among León David Ferrari's recorded themes - anti-establishment critique, brazilian exile reflection, blueprint printing technique, minimal geometric forms, symbolic urban imagery - "Square" brings its own focus on geometric pattern, minimal composition, urban landscape, square structure, gray scale palette, blueprint printing, conceptual art.


Artist Biography

a life marked by protest and artistic expression

león david ferrari, an argentine contemporary conceptual artist, left an indelible mark on the art world with his provocative works that challenged the status quo. born in buenos aires, argentina on september 3, 1920, ferrari's life was a testament to the power of artistic expression as a form of dissent.

early life and career

ferrari's artistic journey began in the early 1950s, with his works often reflecting his disdain for the argentine government, imperialism, and the church. this is exemplified in his piece western and christian civilization, which depicted a near life-size christ hanging crucified on an american fighter jet, sparking controversy upon its creation in 1965.

notable works and exhibitions

* untitled (23 x 16 cm), part of the buenos aires museum of modern art (buenos aires, argentina), showcases ferrari's mastery of oil painting on paper. * untitled, banheiros series, another piece from the same museum, further demonstrates his versatility in using paper as a medium.

legacy and impact

ferrari's extended career, spanning from 1954 to his passing in 2013, was marked by protests against his work, including from pope francis when he was still cardinal jorge bergoglio. despite the controversy, ferrari's art remains a powerful commentary on the societal issues of his time. his legacy continues to inspire and provoke, serving as a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression.

conclusion

león david ferrari's life was a complex interplay of artistic expression and societal dissent. through his works, available on WahooArt.com, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on our collective cultural consciousness.
León David Ferrari

León David Ferrari

1920 - 2013 , Argentina

Quick Facts

  • Full Name: León David Ferrari
  • Nationality: Argentine
  • Date Of Birth: 1920
  • Date Of Death: 2013
  • Place Of Birth: Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Notable Artworks:
    • São Paulo Association Award
    • Untitled (Paper)
    • Western and Christian Civilization
  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Conceptual Art
  • Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
    • Marcel Duchamp
    • Yves Klein
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist:
    • Minimalism
    • Neo-Expressionism
Explore artworks organized by themes, styles, and characteristics.