Reading Between the Lines
The permanent artwork Reading Between the Lines was conceived as part of an exhibition of art in the public space, organized by the Hasselt museum Z33. Situated in the picturesque landscape near the village of Borgloon, the structure is formally based on the archetype of the local parish church. It is constructed as a stacking of horizontal layers, each forming a horizontal cross-section of the floorplan of the church. Roughly 2,000 small, supporting columns keep these horizontal layers at equal distances from each other. From a distance, the light, almost floating-like appearance of the layers makes the structure seem virtually transparent. With its sheer see-through structure, the artwork appears almost like a mirage.
As visitors move closer and around the artwork, the lines of the horizontal layers visually change. The work appears to become more solid, revealing clearly defined window openings and a roof vault.
As one looks at the building, one is automatically also looking at the landscape (both in a physical and cultural sense). The work is not intended for a specific use, but rather functions as a point of reference in its environment.
COMMISSION
Z33 House for Contemporary Art, Design & Architecture
DATE
2011 (permanent)
LOCATION
Borgloon (BE)