Wonder is one of the main states of mind associated with works of fantasy-fiction, and that is exactly what artists Aparna Rao and Soren Pors’ exhibition “Applied Fiction (Reworked)” evokes.
“Applied Fiction”, is a literal title, in that the artists make use of engineering technology to create works of fantasy and wonder.
At the exhibition, the viewer is immediately greeted by a shadowy black spider-like, well, “thing” with a spotlight trained on it. The viewer, as is his wont, stares at it for a few seconds and suddenly it moves. And just as suddenly it is all over and the viewer realizes that it is a feeble attempt by the “thing” to climb up. The work is brightly titled “Sun Shadow”.
The next exhibit, titled “Teddy Universe”, is probably, for this viewer the highlight of the show. The exhibit in question is a giant teddy bear suspended from the ceiling. But it is not just an individual comfort toy, it contains the whole universe — every inch of the teddy bear is dotted with twinkling white lights that resemble stars in the night sky. So just as a solitary child shares her universe with the teddy bear, the teddy bear offers an opportunity for those introspecting adults (and kids) to commune with the universe. So the teddy bear is both intensely personal and universal.
The next installation is contrastingly darker in theme. Titled “Split Knife”, it showcases two wooden stands each of which has a moving knife embedded in the centre. One knife makes its efforts into the stand while the other makes its way out and both the moving knives are synchronised.
Meanwhile, the last two installations, “Heavy Hat” and “The Uncle Phone” are also equally enchanting. In “Heavy Hat” a stick-figure is balanced on its head on a round metal platform. The precariously balanced figure is swaying on its head and it seems as though he is about to fall. Keep looking for a few seconds and it is clear that however mad his head drives him, he clings on to life and doesn’t fall.
“Applied Fiction (Reworked)” is one of those rare shows that one can really enjoy without any intellectual strings attached.
The exhibition will be on view until January 12 at Gallery Ske, 2, Berlie Street, Langford Town. For details contact 41120873.
