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ARTIST'S STATEMENT
Ceramic tile
can be seen as a skin on architecture. it can also be regarded
as a metaphor for interpretation and visual perception,
reflecting art and architecture in society. Although tiles have
a functional purpose, in architecture they can also contribute
to metaphysical sensabilities that deal with basic issues of
culture and humanity, I believe art history has proven this to
be true.
Tiles downscale architecture to a human dimension. They
emphasize the structure and rhythm of urban society. They define
architecture without dominating the architectural space. They
tie everything together. One of the most fascinating examples of
this understanding and use of ceramic tile in public space is
Guell park in Barcelona, designed by Antonio Gaudi, Here, art
and architecture redefine public space, creating a new
understanding of political and social bahavior integrating art
in daily life.
In my art, calligraphy, writings and marks are etched into
the surface of porcelain tiles to create symbols and metaphors.
This is especially true in : Lex Portalis /The Portal of The Law,
In the Supreme Court Building in Oslo, Norway.
The Norwegian Constitution, The Penal Code as well as old
Viking Laws, are inscribed onto 400 sq. m. of tiles on the walls
of an arch. The fundamentals of the social democratic society
are etched into the 32 meter high arch in archaic reverse
handwriting. The skin of tiles are like tatoos on the human
body, simultaneously relating a story and defining a sense of
identity. The penal code mirror-image symbolizes the drama in
the courtroom where prosecutor and the defense attorney
interpret the same paragraphs of the law, each to the advantage
of their client. The code written mirror image on the porcelain
wall is a metaphor giving no specific answer.
The arch itself can also be interpreted to represent a
special moment of trancision from one situation to another.
Either you win a case or you lose. The arch symbolizes how
society values itself and humanity. The continual daily
interpretations of the law are guidelines that govern social,
political and economic structures.
In this site specific work, art and architecture combine to
create an integrated statement that gives identity and meaning,
not only for those who work in the court building but also for
society at large.
This project represents my basic understanding of how concept
and material are integrated to create an artistic statement in
clay.
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