Interview

What was the first art/design/architecture work that impressed you?
[Ali Heshmati]
The work of few architects and artists have been inspirational to me and my approach. Architecturally the early work of Frank O. Gehry, and the work of Aldo Rossi where most crucial to my development. In art and theory I drew inspiration from Joseph Beuys and Marcel Duchamp.

[Lars Meeß-Olsohn]
Early stimulation I received from the work of Naum Gabo, Kenneth Snelson and Richard Buckminster Fuller leading to a deep interest in structural and geometric aspects; based on that in my own work transformation and movement provoke dynamic shapes and installations.


How do you reflect on light as a material or media in your work?
[Ali Heshmati] We considers light as a major material and medium for spatial construction. In our work light is a constant material or force influencing the work in an integral way. This is so in all aspect of our work from product design and architectural projects to temporary installations. This means light is not to be added or subtracted as is the usual case or having a supplementary relation to architecture and art, but that light is art and architecture and as a major material has the ability to stand alone. In other words we believe in light’s innate autonomy. Furthermore, light is always present and is a condition or precondition of seeing. As such light alters the perception of any other objects and sets atmosphere.

What was the guiding interest in your conceptual approach of your work we see during GLOW?
[Lars Meeß-Olsohn] The place at Lichtplein itself with it´s stairs and stage-like character inspired us to think about using our installation as a stage for a public response by means of choreography, performance, dancing – showing the interaction of actor and spectator in unique and individual movements.

What made it interesting to work in Eindhoven?
[Ali Heshmati/Lars Meeß-Olsohn] The fact that we have an urban site in an industrial environment and the company of so many other exciting artists. We felt honored to be asked to participate.

What kind of respond do you expect from the audience?
[Ali Heshmati/Lars Meeß-Olsohn] participation. We count on their interaction with our piece otherwise our object would be half complete. We would like to use our installation as a stage set if you will for a public theater. There is only one condition or directorial request and that is that people show up wearing all black or white when they go inside. We know that this may not be a total and must do kind of directive, but we would like to invite the people that would like to take part in this public theater to show up wearing a costume if you will be cause we know that helps the atmosphere and enhances the presence.

Anything you would like to add?
Here we add our plea to public participation.