Sensibly Seated.

Concrete, Sponge 172 x 12 x 45 cm

At its core lies a juxtaposition of materials: the top and bottom portions crafted from concrete, a ubiquitous symbol of urbanity and durability. Yet, devoid of reinforcing metal rods, the concrete is revealed to be unexpectedly fragile, challenging our perceptions of its inherent strength.

This fragility serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human construction and the natural world. Nestled within this concrete framework lies the centerpiece—a natural sponge, harvested from the depths of our oceans. Subjected to a chemical treatment, the sponge, once a living organism, now lies preserved in a state of suspended animation. Despite its lifeless form, it retains a remarkable flexibility and resilience, defying the constraints of mortality.

The juxtaposition of these materials prompts a contemplation
of our relationship with the environment and the fragility of the ecosystems upon which we depend. As the sponge symbolizes the delicate balance of marine life, the concrete stands as a testament to human intervention and its impact on the natural world. Balancing precariously atop a broken block of debris, the lower portion of the sculpture further underscores the theme of fragility and resilience.

Graduation Show Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp 2021