(SPOT.ph) Art Fair Philippines 2019 isn't over just yet as a 23-foot art installation is still on display at the fountain area of the Makati Stock Exchange Building until March 13. Japanese artist Shinji Ohmaki’s “Gravity and Grace,” a larger-than-life vase-like sculpture made from iron and stainless steel, was installed on February 22—the tail end of 10 Days of Art.
“Gravity and Grace” is a captivating work that changes our perception of time, space, and weight. The whole piece has patterns depicting scenes from nature, all of which are cut-outs on stainless steel. It may seem to appear that the material is as thin as paper, especially when LED lights illuminate it from the inside. This feeling of weightlessness is complemented by the reflection of the water fountain where the piece is installed, providing an atmosphere of repetition and endlessness.
At night, the lights would form a moon-like reflection on the ceiling because of the sculpture’s circular shape. This adds to the forest-like silhouettes of birds, trees, and plants formed by the cut-outs.
Previously presented at the 2016 Aichi Triennale in Japan, “Gravity and Grace” is just one of Ohmaki’s many non-traditional works. In 2018, his installation “Liminal Air Space-Time” at Art Basel Hong Kong amazed attendees with a piece of silk: the artist used fans to create artificial wind, suspending the fabric in mid-air.
Ohmaki focuses on reminding the audience of the importance of nature as well as the interaction of art with space. For instance, one cannot help but walk around “Gravity and Grace” as it sits right at the center of the Makati Stock Exchange Building. The work seeks to extend the space of the art installation—to the fountain, to the ceiling, and to the lingering audience.
The installation invites us to reflect and think about our relationship with our surroundings. And while “Gravity and Grace” will definitely attract many people who would want to take Instagram-worthy photos and selfies, viewers are encouraged to take a moment to sit, pause, and feel how the work changes your mood. As French writer Stendhal puts it, “Beauty is nothing but the promise of happiness.” And “Gravity and Grace” promises just that.
Gravity and Grace” runs until March 13 at Makati Stock Exchange, Ayala Avenue, Makati City. For more information, visit 10 Days of Art’s website.
