Flat Holm, 2005, Sense in Place, Cardiff
Flat Holm made in Cardiff evolved from a previous work made in London during my MA study (Greenhouse, 2003).
Through the year spent in London I collected different objects (from street and boot sales) related to my experience and perception of England. During that time I formed the idea of a “container” for all those objects.
I used the greenhouse as a symbol of English space and as a container of time and experiences.
Although troubled, that space was “open” to outer influences (sun, light) and in the same time it allowed a view from the inside out.
Since the circumstances in the world and in Britain changed dramaticaly (due to political escalation) I decided to logically continue the idea of the greenhouse by “closing” that space, alluding to it’s becoming hermetical, cautious, protecting itself from the outer influences and dangers.
Lead appeared to be the apropriate material to use considering its symbolic value and the wide use in the area of Cardiff and Britain.
The isolated Flat Holm Island and its former radar ramp were the perfect spot for such an object contributing with its raw beauty and historical past (Victorian and WW2 fortress, first radio broadcasting by Marconi, etc.).
Flat Holm was made during the project Sense in Place