Sunday, February 03, 2008

Eylem Aladogan in Kröller-Müller Museum





Otterlo, Netherlands - From 21 February until 8 June there is an exhibition of installations by Eylem Aladogan (1975) in Kröller-Müller Museum’s large sculpture gallery. Eylem Aladogan makes monumental installations characterised by a dynamic interplay between architectural and more organic elements. The artist is preoccupied with the real world, nature and science. The exhibition includes older work and a new installation: Before Departure (all my changes were there ), inspired by the artist’s recent travels through the deserts states of Arizona, Utah and Nevada.

This was an extraordinary and spiritual journey which has not only led to the new art work exhibited here, but has also left an indelible impression on the development of her work towards a more abstract symbolism in which there is a stronger role for her personal experience.

Before Departure (all my changes were there) consists of various associated sculptural components. Each form within the installation has a visual and meaningful connection with the others. The combination of the individual components strengthens their visual impact and creates a new meaning and experience. The use of certain materials and techniques plays an essential role within Aladogan’s work. The new installation contains walnut, ceramics, metal, felt and leather. For Aladogan it was inspiring to work with new materials and explore (craft) techniques. The inherent qualities and limitations of the materials literally become part of the content of her installations, defining the work’s state of mind.