Installation veiw of the exhibition METAMORPHING FAILURES at Modern Animal Gallery, July 2023, Zurich, Switzerland

Photo credit: Nicolas Duc

10593


2023, fabric, cotton wool, paper, thread



                   
     

The in-situ installation, titled "10593," showcases 120 intricately hand-sewn stalagmites and stalactites, collectively forming a captivating cave-like structure. This artwork, created by the artist, delves deeply into the exploration of the concept of time, with the title signifying the number of days the artist had lived when initially exhibiting this work.

In the natural process of cave formation, the creation of stalactites typically requires an extensive period, often spanning several centuries. The natural growth rate of stalactites is nearly imperceptible, progressing at a rate of approximately 1 millimeter every ten years. In contrast, the artist's lifetime is generally not of sufficient duration to facilitate the formation of stalactites. However, whether this period is perceived as long or short depends not only on the unit of measurement but also on an individual's perception of time.

When measured against the backdrop of natural geological processes, this time frame may indeed appear remarkably brief. Nevertheless, it represents the entirety of the time the artist has experienced, imbuing it with a distinct sense of continuity and personal experience. The rapid emergence of stalactites in contrast to an individual's life journey encapsulates the essence of "10593," prompting viewers to reflect on the intricate interplay between art, time, and personal existence.