Wavefunction by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, premiered at the Venice Biennale from June to November 2007. An array of chairs that move up and down electromechanically, responding to the presence of the public by creating waves that propagate over the exhibition room. Higher resolution version available at http://www.lozano-hemmer.com
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The chairs seemed to be at sea because of the way that they moved. It was very soothing to watch them bob up and down like ducks on a lake. I wonder if the artist intended for us to “see” nature in this man made, artificial exhibit. I wonder what inspired the artist. his work is unique in that it needs to be viewed or have an audience in order to come into existence in a sense. Without an audience, it is a group of ordinary chairs but an audience brings it to life.
You’re absolutely right…an audience, or maybe participant is a better word, is necessary. In this respect, Lozano-Hemmer’s work is quite Baroque! And I really like you comparison to nature. As I walked around the chairs, it seemed to me they were “breathing” or moving as waves might move.
The artist is making a statement that art cannot be created or enjoyed without an audience to get involved with it. It is a very literal interpertation that art needs an audience to be present in order for it to be appreciated