In 2015, Mambo started with a new series of abstract paintings. When Mambo confronted the public with his very new and different approach he decided to sign them with his first name, Flavien, because they appeared exceedingly different from his well-known paintings, such as Brainology. These canvases consist of a rather geometrical texture and minimal color variations. Vertical brushstrokes are the simple yet effective trademark of Flavien’s series. The technique is a result of a long-standing study and experience in art, but also influenced by the assistant years to Sol LeWitt, in the mid 90ies. Different art movements as well as artists are still inspiring Flavien’s artistic practice, such as: Franck Stella, Yayoi Kusama, Ellsworth Kelly, Piet Mondrian and Jackson Pollock.
“The Stroke series allow me to live my fantasies, as I build my paintings from arithmetics, geometry or organically, it requires concentration, calculation or intuition and letting things go… my painting sessions turn sometimes into meditation, sometimes choreography, cuisine or simply orgasmic in different forms. I like the paradox of having a very mechanical way of painting, that finds its beauty in the mistakes and accidents happening along the way.”
In the fascinating Strokes series, the artist finds a gateway to live out their fantasies, intertwining arithmetics, geometry, and organic elements in the creation of each painting. This process demands a delicate balance of focus and intuition, while also allowing the flow of freedom and space to let go. As the strokes take shape, the artist’s creative sessions transcend the boundaries of traditional painting, transforming into moments of meditation, choreography, culinary exploration, or pure emotional release. Within this paradoxical approach lies the true beauty of the series – a mechanical technique that embraces the unpredictable, celebrating the mistakes and accidents that occur along the artistic journey.
