Stained glass, steel
210 x 275 x 7 cm
The work "Bow" is a further development of Rasmus Søndergaard Johannsen's series of small sculptures from 2021, "Patterns". These works are part of a longer and ongoing exploration of ideologically motivated textile production in Russia in the early 20th century. Varvara Stepanova was one of the protagonists of this time, creating designs for clothing and consumer goods that were suitable for mass production.
Rasmus Søndergaard Johannsen's work "Bow" formally recalls one of these patterns. It is an empty signifier, a projection surface not only because of its emblematic form. Physically, the work is distinguished not only by its long legs, which elevate it to a superhuman size, but also by the glass surfaces, which are differently structured through the manufacturing processes. The matte blown surfaces evoke the idea of skin, referencing the manual process that created them. The seemingly clear, simple forms with their small deviations stand in stark contrast to flawless industrially produced patterns. It is chance, which even specialized craftsmen cannot avoid, that gives this work its form. The surface of "Bow" shimmers depending on the viewing angle and time of day, becoming a unique moving image at each moment of observation.
The high speed at which we currently consume images flickers on our retinas. The images are smooth, without texture or haptics – they are the opposite of our bodies, the texture of our skin. They overstimulate eyes and ears, overshadowing our other senses. From a distance, "Bow" appears to be part of the same flickering. Upon closer inspection, more flaws, variations, and details reveal themselves over time.
Marina Rüdiger
