This blog is a reference point for a research dossier on "Transcendence" for my Installation studio at AUT.

Definition

Statement

We perceive transcendence as one material surpassing another in virtually anyway. For example; spiritually, mentally and physically. The fundamental concept we associated with transcendence was the universe and that of beyond the world we live in. The consistent ideas we have used are that of reflection and the notion of the stars as a symbol of transcendent being. Reflection involves seeing ourselves in detail thus attaining greater insight, essential for transcending. Stars are common and essential parts of the universe often compared to gods in many religions and lore, this creates the notion of humans transcending earth to the stars above. Our initial concepts involved the reflection of lights as stars reflecting causing the viewer to see him or herself amongst the stars, a transcendent being. Since then we had gone to develop it, considering transcendence not just through the stars but anything that changes. Trying to simulate the galaxy through fairy lighting, having layers and layers of thread for an angelic approach and water reflection. Our installation now consists of cellophane wrap crumpled in a form which is suspended from the ceiling by black sewing thread, below the cellophane are seven bowls lined up containing black diluted water (using paint) and also with thread suspended from underneath the cellophane dipping into the bowls. We had chosen these materials because they are used in everyday life by humans (cellophane to wrap, thread used to create the clothes we wear and bowls used for any food related need). The cellophane form is the sky / universe while the bowls are the earth. To transcend means to change, every day we as humans change into someone different from the previous day, all while we use these materials.

Material + Disposal

Materials list
-Cellophane wrap -Black thread -Water + paint -Plastic bowls -Double sided tape -Powder (Ginger)

Recyclable methods
Because cellophane isn’t a part of the plastic family it can’t be recycled although we have two options. Cellophane is bio-degradable which means we can bury it and it should dissolve into the ground within 90 days or we decided we could reuse the 5 metre cello wrap for future gifts and presents which is pretty handy considering cellophane goes great as covers for basket gifts and as filler for presents in a bag. For the black thread we thought we could reroll the long strips on an old pencil and reuse it to do minor stitch ups on clothes that might tear. We also thought of setting aside the paint water and letting the paint settle at the bottom of the bowls then emptying the water on some grass that isn’t near any drains. We bought the bowls brand new from spotlight which means we could possible sanitise the bowls and use them at home to eat with or to hold fruit. Lastly flour is an organic material which we could just spread on the grass with the paint water.

Design Location

Above are photos of the space we have chosen to create our installation in. It'll be about 5 meters in length with a 1-2 meter width.

Concept drawings

Concept Definition