‘OBJECTS OF FUTILITY’
Exhibition
Exhibition
Balance and harmony are achieved through a complimentary state of tension and resting equilibrium between opposing forces. The tension between concept and materiality is something that perpetually inspires us at OIGÅLL PROJECTS, often resulting in the emergence of inherent dialogues within works, with the audience and of course between artists themselves. This convergence of artists and their respective practices informs the genesis of our latest show “Objects of Futility”, which features the work of Sydney-based designer Henry Wilson and Japanese-born artist Makiko Ryujin.
For years, Studio HENRY WILSON has crafted objects that harmonise form and function. In this collection, however, the studio pauses this ethos, embracing design methodology as an art medium that speaks in textures and silhouettes rather than utility. A series of wall based reliefs, forms and sculptural objects, conceptually derived but industrially fabricated are offered not as solutions to life but rather objects of total desire.
Artist Makiko Ryujin explores notions of ephemerality and the symbolic function of objects through her series of charred timber works which reference Buddhist elemental cosmology and traditional Japanese forms. Turned from eucalyptus and cypress and scorched using a method known as Yakisugi, these works carry spiritual connotations as symbolic objects and while non-functional, perform as objects of reflection.
The tension between these practices, with both Wilson and Ryujin approaching making work through their own unique perspectives and experience, finds resolution in a shared pursuit; exploring the poetic potential of materials and transcending the conventional, functional role of objects. Through their conceptual exploration of materials and forms, both seek to elevate our desire, affection and seemingly random affinity for the objects we surround ourselves with to an equal - if not greater - value than those of mere utility.
Photography by;
Annika Kafcaloudis