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DiaporamaVia Negativa II
One of Lee Bul’s first architectural installations, Via Negativa II (2014) is an enclosed, mirrored structure illuminated by rows of bulbs, which invites viewers into a maze-like space. Inside the structure, the mirrored walls create countless fictional paths and endless reflections of the viewers themselves, leading them to experience confusion and disorientation. However, it also challenges viewers and impels them to keep moving to find a way out of the deceiving images. Via Negativa II offers different views of the self in and in relation to physical space. The structure’s exterior is also entirely covered with mirrors, on which pages from psychologist Julian Jaynes’ book The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind (1976) are printed plainly, yet in reverse. The text is thus not meant to be perused or fully understood, but only remotely hints at the artist’s theme for this work. Lee Bul has referred to the “glass architecture” of Paul Scheerbart and Bruno Taut’s utopian visions as an inspiration, but her take on glass architecture is not transparent but ambiguous, not futuristic but introspective.
Lee Bul (1964 –)
Lee Bul (born 1964) is a leading South Korean artist known for immersive installations & sculptures exploring utopia, dystopia, technology, and memory. Featured at Venice Biennale & MoMA.
Manege Central Exhibition Hall (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation)
Explore Manege Central Exhibition Hall in St. Petersburg – Russia’s premier art venue showcasing classical masterpieces and cutting-edge contemporary art alongside cultural exhibitions.
About this artwork
- Title: Via Negativa II
- Artist: Lee Bul
- Year: 2014
- Format: Landscape
- Copyright status: Under copyright
- Where to see it: Manege Central Exhibition Hall
- Creative period: Mature Period
- Main color: Gray
- Keywords: silver color art , reflective artwork , utopian architecture
- Perceived brightness: bright
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