 | Nairy Baghramian (IR, D)
Aufbauhelfer (Construction helper)
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Aufbauhelfer (Construction helper), 2009
Two-part sculpture
Lacquered steel, rubber, concrete
Foyer Kunsthaus Graz and “Kunsthaus” tram stop “Aufbauhelfer” (construction helper) is a two-part sculpture. On the one hand it is a kind of frame chained to one of the benches at the “Kunsthaus” tram stop. Being fragmentary, it reminds us of part of a delivery left behind or not yet complete, temporarily deposited. The imagery is reminiscent of classical abstract sculpture in the urban landscape from the 1950s, for example that of British sculptor Henry Moore. The second part, the platform, resembles a table-top, folded up and leaning against the wall in the Kunsthaus foyer. The sculptures appear unfinished and without function, underperformed. What construction is the chained frame supposed to help? And who is supposed to use the platform? The
two parts are separate from each other, one inside, one outside, and yet physically close. Is the idea really to forge a link between the public space and the art institution? If both elements were joined to create a sculpture, the platform would have to be put on top of the frame, which would result in a base or a side table. The question of purpose thus arises again: who or what is placed on the base? Or: who will sit at this table?
When she created her outdoor sculpture for the “Sculpture Projects” in Münster in 2007, Baghramian explained how important she felt it is for the viewer to be able to decide whether or not to engage with an artwork. She allows for unforeseen additional uses such as graffiti or misunderstandings such as cars parking in front of sculptures; the artist does not, in any case, remove such appropriations in favour of a purist representation of her artwork. Outdoor artworks often appear out of place and take up space for other uses. The impression created by commercial fixtures that are proliferating in cities is hardly different: frequently out of place or even without style. Whereas art, as Baghramian explains, does often require both “decorative-ornamental and thematic ‘prostheses’ to stand on its feet”, the commercial use of the city is rarely denied its justification.
Commissioned by steirischer herbst
Project sponsor Think!
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25/09 - 18/10
Utopia and Monument I
Fri 25/09, 6 pm
Vernissage at the exhibition pavilion, Platz der Freiwilligen Schützen / Bad zur Sonne
public space
Nairy Baghramian
Born in Isfahan (IR) in 1971, living in Berlin (D) since 1985.
25/09 - 18/10
Utopia and Monument I
Fri 25/09, 6 pm
Vernissage at the exhibition pavilion, Platz der Freiwilligen Schützen / Bad zur Sonne
public space
Nairy Baghramian
Born in Isfahan (IR) in 1971, living in Berlin (D) since 1985.
