Jan Turzo

Division

Slovakia, 2009

Bracelet

Materials:

Aluminum and silicon

Techniques:

machine casting, bending, patina

Dimension in cm:

7 x 6 x 3

Artist Statement:

I have worked up this theme so that it

should address as many people as possible.

I have used commonly known symbol. The

barbed wire symbolizes war, division,

imprisonment and its barbs evoke the pain.

On the other hand, the silicon bracelet is

decoration created by consume. The

contrast, that arises by their connection

should disturb and excite thoughts.

This disturbing feeling evokes also a haptic

experience from wearing the bracelet. The

barbs pinch and cease to forget. I want this

bracelet to invoke questions from vicinity.

This way it would spread interest about this

theme.

My jewel is not exclusive or unique. It is

thought for easy mass production and it is

made of cheap materials. I did not wanted

to make few expensive pieces, but

something for lot of people. In this case it

would not help to engage only a few

individuals. It is necessary to tear out of

letargy as many people as possible, because

their interest can activate also our

politicians.

What was your starting point or your

inspiration for doing this project?

My inspiration begins with the piece of

barbed wire. This piece took my father from

the border between Austria and Slovakia

after falling of the iron curtain in ‘89.

Do you have a personal (or other)

connection to the exhibition’s theme?

I live in Bratislava – a city beside which the

iron curtain passed during the cold war. I

saw how easy it is to divide people and how

difficult it  is to join them again.

What were the main reasons for choosing

the materials, shapes or technique in your

work?

I have chosen aluminum, because steel as

original material of barbed wire is

dangerous. It can cause allergic reaction

and when roasted it can also cause tetanus

infection. I have used patina on aluminum

so that it looks like real steel wire.

My choice of silicon I have explained in

concept. But the chosen color (Slate Blue) is

also important to me. It is cold, looks a bit

like steel and evokes sorrow.

What kind of feeling you wish the viewers

will get from your work?

I want people to be more interested in

events in troubled regions.

If you could give your Jewelry to an

important figure in the Middle East who

will he/she be? and why?

I would give one to every commander of

armed forces. To remind him suffering of

civilians.

Personal information:

personal website:

http://www.designby.sk/index.php?

option=com_detail&id=121

Browsing:

www.sme.sk (newspaers)

Inspiring artists:

Ilya Kabakov

Top 3 materials:

metal, wood, stone

If I wasn’t an artist what profession would I

choose?

farmer