Design
In the comprehensive multi-media project SOH anything is possible. By means of computers, VJ-performances, operas, short films and more, artist Alex Vermeulen expresses his views of humanity. In designing the project SOH19 States of Nature, he uses, in association with the Natuurkunst Foundation, the form of expression with which he earned a reputation in the Dutch art society, namely sculptures.
The earlier work of Alex Vermeulen displays his affinity with technology, while recently he has been occupied with more societal subjects. This project can be seen as a synthesis of both themes; the relevance of technology for society.
In a pond of nearly 1800 square meters, 88 large black polyester eggs are floating, each equipped with a solar panel. The combined power delivered by these eggs depends on the light received from the sun, and is employed to create a large magnetic field. This field lifts a larger, anthropomorphic sculpture in a column in the centre of the pond. The level of the anthropomorphic sculpture above surface of the pond is determined by the elemental forces of nature. The combined power is supplied by the sun, but also wind and water influence the panels’ orientations.
The artwork is self-sufficient in energy. At night the sculpture will disappear beneath the water surface, while on a nice summer’s day it will heave majestically at a height of 3 meters. This intuitively shows the potential of renewable energy.
The black shiny eggs are an important theme in Vermeulen’s work and represent the creation of life and life itself. In this case the combined power generated by the eggs lifts the large sculpture, a circle of life that will be repeated every day.
At the eye-catching location on the campus of the Eindhoven University of Technology the project will be a great appeal to the residents of Eindhoven. This location on the riverside of the Dommel, is centered in a beautiful park that will be restyled as a recreation area of Eindhoven. The project is therefore a strong combination of art, technology and nature.
