magnetic_T
Opening Reception on February 22, 2019 at 6:30pm
ARTISTS
Nelo Akamatsu
Tatiana Trouvé
Zilvinas Kempinas
Pe Lang
Warning: This exhibition contains static magnetic and small electro-magnetic fields. The exhibition will not be accessible to those wearing implanted ferromagnetic or electronic medical devices sensitive to magnetic fields such as Pacemakers.
Four artists from four countries use Magnets, magnetism and magnetic fields to create profound and fascinating works that reference migrations, attraction, resistance and power.
The quality of ‘a living thing’; of something imbued with agency, is palpable. Without prior knowledge the works could almost be alive, haunted or mechanized. They breathe, take shape and reform; play as if internally motivated; are drawn and pulled in directions by something unseen or held suspended by invisible forces. The tension between agency and suspension is diagnostic.
An important element is the notion that something hidden can exert an unyielding force or cause change: the hidden device, a hidden power or presence, or a hidden method of operation. The ability to control the unseen; the exertion of force or power in ways that are not always discernible is ever-present. The connections with manifestations of power, repulsion and attraction are inescapable and timely.
The works allude to what we understand of directions and poles, and the processes of navigation or exploration. By their very nature, the movement of magnetic particles across a surface contain references to ongoing processes of mass movement, migration and searching.
Finally, the mythical, magical properties of magnetism convey a sort of suspension of disbelief. They are unbelievable. Four works. 350 needles in water, hitting glass is a sound work by Nelo Akamatsu entitled Chijikinkutsu. A repetitive, rolling dance distinguishes moving objects/ no. 502-519 by Pe Lang. The suspended trajectories of plumb bobs from around the world defines 240 points toward infinity by Tatiana Trouvé. And the migrating surface skin of Bearings by Zilvinas Kempinas.
Each physical suspension, uncanny dance, fragmentary, directional sound and poised trajectory allows us to reflect on the possibilities or impossibilities of balance in a world out of balance. These artists use the power of magnetism to deceive, enchant and illuminate.