June 28 - September 20, 2009
KunstFort Asperen
The fort and its surroundings form the starting point for the theme Retreat. The fortress has lost its original function, whereby the perception of place and space has changed. This transition from defense post to idyllic place forms the premise of the exhibition. The theme, although reflecting today’s socio-economic realities, was in fact chosen prior to the current global crisis. For a long time van Berkel and Bos have been interested in exploring places and spaces which extend function and stretch reality
Inspired by the fort’s concentric floor plan UNStudio has designed a spatial installation which reinterprets the organization of the fort. The object is a cross between a sculpture, a piece of furniture and a route indicator for visitors. The structure winds through the fort like a ribbon, playing with the changing perceptions and experiences of the space, both literally and symbolically. Unexpected views are created, the functionality of the space is interrupted and reality is stretched.
The structure forms a binding element between the various artworks and the three levels of the fort. The material and the diamond structure of the installation reflect the exhibited artworks which are installed around the fort.
unstudio.com/retreat