Zwischen den Zeilen: A Microscopic Journey into the Artist’s World

2nd CMAC Workshop, 23. – 30. November 2023, Artconnect Chiang Mai

From the outset, “Zwischen den Zeilen” (Between the Lines) was envisioned as a unique fusion of art and conservation. As an artist and heritage conservator deeply committed to both creative expression and the preservation of artistic heritage, I embarked on this project during the 2nd CMAC workshop at Artconnect with a dual purpose. My goal was not only to create art but also to document and understand it in a way that would benefit future generations. By practice my conservator’s approach to interviewing artists, I aimed to delve deeply into their creative processes and material choices. This method allowed me to gather invaluable insights into the practices and substances that shape their art, initiating an discussion about the materials and philosophy around the artistic tapestries.

Unveiling the Unseen at Artconnect

As an artist and conservator I am constantly seeking new ways to explore and express the intricate dance between heritage and contemporary, my latest project, “Zwischen den Zeilen” (Between the Lines), presented a unique challenge and opportunity. Held during the vibrant week-long workshop at Artconnect, this project was a deep dive into the hidden realms of 30 asian artists.

The Concept: Microscopic Insights

The idea was simple yet profound: to explore the essence of art beyond the visible. Over 4 immersive days, I navigated the spaces of fellow artists, observing and engaging in conversations that ranged from their artistic processes to personal philosophies. Each discussion was a revelation, a peek into the diverse tapestries of thought and emotion that fuel creativity.

The Process: Intimate Documentations

Equipped with a portable microscope, I transformed into a detective of sorts, uncovering the secrets lying within the tools and materials of my fellow artists. These microscopic views offered a new perspective – textures, colors, and patterns unseen by the naked eye, each telling its own story.

The Artwork: A Visual Symphony

The culmination of this journey was a series of 24 slides, each a testament to an artist’s unique world. Every slide contained three microscopic photographs, paired with a word or a sentence that encapsulated our conversation’s essence. The German language is Sabine Zimpfer’s and my cultural heritage share to the artwork. Displayed on a screen at the museum, these slides were not just images; they were narratives, each weaving a delicate thread in the vast tapestry of artistic expression.

See the full slideshow on YouTube.

The Exhibition: an Invitation to dive into a micro level

“Zwischen den Zeilen” is shown during the exhibition at a screen at the entrance. Viewers were invited to step into a world where the lines between the artist and their art blurred, where the microscopic and the macroscopic danced in tune.

Looking Forward: The Journey Continues

This project has been a journey of discovery, not just for me but for every viewer who experienced “Zwischen den Zeilen.” As I continue to explore the boundaries of art and perception, I am reminded of the endless possibilities that await in the unseen corners of creativity.

Stay tuned for more adventures in art, and a big THANK YOU! to all the artists at 2nd CMAC and Sabine Zimpfer and staff for joining me on this extraordinary journey.