Triennial Bruges; Architectural artworks
Ever since Triennial Bruges inaugural 2015 debut, contemporary architects and artists from across the globe have been invited to the city, commissioned to create experience based constructions which encourage a thought-provoking social atmosphere. This year, with the overarching theme of ‘Liquid society’, Triennial contemplates our rapidly changing world; as established ways of life are under pressure, what does the future hold?
Triennial Bruges -Architectural artworks.
This year, with the overarching theme of ‘Liquid society’, Triennial Bruges contemplates our rapidly changing world through architecture; as established ways of life are under pressure, what does the future hold?..
International artists and architects were invited to think about this question, in particular the consequences of liquidity in the city, in an age where nothing seems certain. The result is 15 works of art, installations and social spaces spanning across the historic city in perhaps unexpected places. The objective is to encourage people not only to view each artwork but to experience them and become part of the creative process. Here's what we think are the top five architectural experiences from the pavilions showcased...
1.
OBBA - The Floating Island
Designed by Sojung Lee and Sangjoon Kwak, the duo behind Korean architectural firm OBBA, ‘The Floating Island’ makes walking on water a reality. Located on the canals near Snaggaardbruf, the environment provides a whole new perspective of the city, covering over 100 square metres. The installation is surrounded by green islands, all accessible to the public to take a break, stroll along or make time for enjoying the surroundings - relaxing on hammocks or couches which lean right over the water.
2.
Renato Nicolodi - Acheron I
With several solo exhibitions under his belt, Belgian artist Renato Nicolodi is already well known for his sculptural installations. Acheron I is an installation in the canal, a sombre concrete pavilion leading visitors towards the water - inspired by the Greek word achos; a mythological “river of sorrow” that’s believed to give access to the underworld. The sculpture is intended to “Represent a haven, a gateway between the present, future and the past”.
3.
Selgascano - Selgascano Pavilion
Spanish architects José Selgas and Lucía Cano of Selgascano Studio are well known for their use of synthetic materials and innovative technologies within design and the Selgascano Pavilion is no exception. Constructed in transparent vinyl, the organic installation floats between the city’s brick buildings along the canal as a spot to stop and take time to absorb the historic surroundings. The location on the canal, which is mostly closed off from the main links, allows for people to wade in or even swim. - subject to water the quality on the day.
4.
Jarosław Kozakiewicz - Brug
Jarosław creates a contemporary interpretation of the many bridges which span the canal network across the city centre . The artist’s use of metal profiles and canvas creates a bridge which is functional, allowing people to cross, whilst encouraging a brief pause as the installation ends viewing the statue of Niobe by Constant Permeke. The structures design is based upon a proportional system linking to the human face which Jarosław uses as a metaphor for mutual encounters between human beings from the future and past.
5.
John Powers - Lanchals
The New York-based artist John Powers draws inspiration from the rich history and folklore of Bruges to create the architectural installation; Lanchals. Erecting a meter-high sculpture in the form of a swan’s neck, Power’s links the the piece to the Archduke Maximilian Pieter Lanchals who was killed during an uprising in the 15th century against urban privileges - Legend has it that in memory of this event, the city had to allow 52 swans on to the various canals.
Triennial Bruges 2018 is open to the general public until 16 September 2018. For more information and specific event experiences head to the official Triennial website.