The media archaeological work Engobes has been guided by the question of how we find connection with our surroundings when the reality seems ragged and multilayered.

Organic materials and traditional work methods have gone through digital processes. According to the latest research, our brain processes digital content like dreams, a bit like context-free data that floats detached from physical reality. Engobes is exploration how artefacts and their stories move from time to time, and especially what kind of narratives are sustained about humanity, other beings and cultures by the used artefacts.

Each fluctuation in the transition creates space for different conscious paths.

The video features pencil drawings and clay objects that have been 3D scanned. They got a protective and decorative video coating, i.e. digital engobe. Sound is composed with field recordings. Some of the clay objects from the artwork are also on display as physical sculptures, Couriers.

The objects and their intended use are imaginary, shapes have been inspired by real artefacts in archaeological museums in Lisbon, Athens and Turku. Also the purpose of some of the museum artefacts are unknown or their meanings have been interpreted according to current culture and values.

Supported by the Arts Promotion Centre of Finland. The work began in the residency at Zaratan Art Centre in Portugal in 2023, thank you for the space and inspiration, and all the fellow artists and beings whom I got to work with.

Tech

Video: 1 projector + media player
Audio: speakers
Space: dark or dimmed space
Sculptures: 1 pedestal + 1 spotlight

Single screens

Installations