WORK OF THE WEEK: Nigel Hall, Nine Degrees North, 1990
Nigel Hall
Nine Degrees North, 1990
Phosphor bronze
237.5 x 174 x 133 cm
93 ½ x 68 ½ x 52 ½ in.
Unique
Nigel Hall's work focuses on the cyclical relationship between the physical and metaphysical, bold metal lines opening themselves up to empty space. Hall identifies the progression of his own work from physical to spiritual, as is similarly emulated in Claude Lorraine's paintings. 'Take one of Claude's landscapes' Hall explains, 'the foreground is always so tactile and real, very earthed. And then, as you work deeper into it, the trees become more and more delicate until you reach a misty plain, which is nothing more than diffused light.'
Whilst this piece may not appear gradual in its progression from physical to metaphysical, we must remind ourselves that the space within and around the sculpture is part of the piece. Parallax - the apparent shift of an object against a background due to a change in observer position - has been a particular favourite device of his. It gives the viewer a sense of agency in how they engage with the piece. Umberto Eco's theory 'Opera Aperta' (The Open Work) positions the viewer as a co-creator of an artwork. In observing a piece through the individual lens built by experiences unique to them, the sensations and emotions evoked by the piece are therefore provided by the viewer to be assigned to the art. This symbiotic relationship between art and viewer lends itself to Hall's ideology of progressive physicality to spirituality. Moving around the piece, discerning where the sculpture ends and space begins, or deciding to see piece and space as one and the same, is left to the discretion of the viewer.
Moreover, this piece is not of a collection of multiple editions; it is entirely unique. Situated outside in the park at Roche Court, the open space in-between allows for shadows to be cast over the lawn that shift through the day. Its presence commands a curious attention, willing us to engage with it, explore it, and orbit its periphery, allowing us to see it anew with every glance.
Nigel Hall
Oak Leaf, 1991
Phospher Bronze
171.5 x 225 x 162cm
5ft7 1/2 x 7ft4 x 5ft4 in.
Nigel Hall
Nine Degrees North, 1990
Phosphor bronze
237.5 x 174 x 133 cm
93 1/2 x 68 1/2 x 52 3/8 in.