Concept
The THRUST installation is a dynamic sculpture designed to reflect the building’s geometric architectural structure and symbolizes the vital force of life. Located in the courtyard, the sculpture captures an iconic moment of suspended liquidity, referencing the essence of life and progress that underpins modernity. The organic, eruptive form visually contrasts with the building’s orderly geometric grid, creating an aesthetic tension between fluidity and structure. Additionally, the piece nods subtly to the transformative impact of the digital age on education, drawing parallels with the flow of high-resolution data streams and the spirit of innovation.
The sculpture’s prominent placement in the courtyard, surrounded by glass facades, fills the space with a powerful yet elegant presence. Dramatic in its form, the piece utilizes a rich contrast between its silver surface, dark gray gravel-covered base, and the sandy hues of the building. This base creates an illusion of the courtyard floor as a membrane punctured by a powerful eruption, symbolizing both containment and release. The installation aligns with the building’s design in creating a layered experience, allowing observers from various floors and angles to interact with its contours, invoking interpretations that blend past and future in a single space.
Technical Execution
The THRUST sculpture will be crafted from corrosion-resistant polished aluminum with a thickness of approximately 1 cm and an overall weight of 400-500 kg per large component. The installation consists of six distinct parts, with dimensions ranging from 50 x 325 x 100 cm to 500 x 850 x 250 cm, and spans a total surface area of about 40 square meters. The aluminum elements will be mounted in the courtyard, grounded with dark gravel to enhance the sculpture’s color contrast and integrate with the courtyard floor visually. This gravel base is essential to create a high-contrast appearance, with black or dark gray tones recommended.
In terms of maintenance, the installation requires minimal upkeep beyond regular cleaning as part of the building’s maintenance routine, with all materials meeting B1 fire safety standards. Lighting will play a role in highlighting the sculpture’s details, especially under low natural light conditions. Coordination with the architect will ensure the optimal color and material contrast, enhancing the interaction between sculpture and architecture while maintaining the piece’s integrity in this prominent space.