Studio DRIFT‘s installations are big, bold and always effortlessly presented in a way to entice the senses. But unlike a lot of gimmicky experiential movements taking ahold of the art world, the Dutch duo seeks to address a number of real world issues spanning the climate emergency and our reliance on technology, in an attempt to spark reflection on the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature.
Following the success of their recent show in Rio de Janeiro, DRIFT has unveiled a new exhibition entitled Vida em Coisas (which translates to ‘Life in Stuff’) at the CCBB São Paulo (Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil). Spread across sculpture and installations, DRIFT casts a vision of “nature and technology living together in harmony,” according to Brazilian curator Marcello Dantas. “Be it through the bionic world or be it through the concept of animism, in which everything – animals, natural phenomena and inanimate objects – has a spirit that connects them with everything else.”
Returning on view is DRIFT’s kinetic installation, Amplitude, a series of floating robotic beams made of brass, borosilicate glass and stainless steel, which transforms the space into a field of movement and life. Also making a return is Ego, a time-based installation that oscillates between rigidity and a fluid form. In the latter, the artists reflect on “how our hopes, truths, and emotions are a direct result of the rigidness or fluidity of the mind,” according to a past statement.
Specially made for the exhibition, DRIFT worked with Brazil’s Estúdio Campana on a sculptural chair made of plush stuffed animals that forms part of their Materialism series. “We are so inspired by the Brazilian people and the vibrancy of São Paulo’s art scene. It has long been a DRIFT dream to exhibit here, and we are so honored to be welcomed by the CCBB and the city”, said DRIFT founder and artist, Lonneke Gordijn.
Vida em Coisas will be on view in São Paulo until August 7.
Elsewhere, Austrian artist Erwin Wurm takes over Yorkshire Sculpture Park.
