Agostino Bonalumi’s art is characterized by a unique approach to painting that incorporates sculptural elements, challenging the traditional boundaries of the canvas. Bonalumi's most distinctive works are his "extroflections," where he manipulates the canvas to create three-dimensional forms that protrude into the viewer's space. By stretching and shaping the canvas over hidden structures, such as wooden or metal frames, Bonalumi transforms the flat surface into a dynamic, tactile object. This technique creates a play of light and shadow across the monochromatic surfaces, adding depth and a sense of movement.
His color palette is often monochromatic, which serves to emphasize the structural changes and the interaction between light and shadow. The simplicity of the color allows the viewer to focus on the physical alterations and the spatial qualities of the work. Bonalumi's pieces are not just paintings but also sculptural objects that engage the viewer in a dialogue about form, space, and perception.
Influenced by the Spatialism movement led by Lucio Fontana and closely associated with the Zero group, Bonalumi's work is part of a broader effort to redefine the nature of painting and its relationship to the environment.