2017
Medium:star anise, metal pin, shadow, smell
Location: Durham Art Gallery, Ontario, CanadaDimension: dimensions variable
In ‘Aum – (13.8 Billion-Year Old Ripple)’, I employ the aromatic star anise as a medium to manifest the essence of time and existence. By pinning these organic forms onto the wall to create ripples, I seek to evoke the ceaseless vibrations that gave birth to our universe 13.8 billion years ago. The title ‘Aum’ refers to the primordial sound, a spiritual icon that resonates the cosmic frequency, embodying the universe’s complexity within its simple intonation.
The use of metal pins not only serves as a structural tool but also adds a contrasting element of rigidity to the organic, fragile form of the star anise. This juxtaposition reflects the delicate balance between fragility and strength, chaos and order, that makes up our world and beyond.
Each star anise, with its unique contours and intricacies, symbolizes the individual entities that contribute to the cosmic fabric, yet when viewed collectively, they create a unified, harmonious pattern— much like our universe. This work is not just a visual installation but a sensory experience that invites viewers to contemplate the vastness and interconnectedness of existence itself.