Artist Statement
Formal and Casual examines duality through material, surface, and presence. The two columns are identical in form yet opposite in character: one reflective and luminous, the other absorbing light with a matte black coat. Together they function as a dialogue between restraint and expressiveness, minimalism and ornament, structure and emotion.
The Mercury Effect panel technique gives both pieces a fluid, organic skin, transforming rigid stainless steel into something behaving like animated liquid.
1/1 Installation
Formal and Casual is a paired work of two vertical stainless-steel columns shaped with the Mercury Effect—one mirror-polished, the other finished in deep black. The piece reads as a dialogue; install the columns so they face the viewer together and share a clear visual axis.
Placement
- Best for minimalist lobbies, gallery corridors, reception areas and quiet architectural niches.
- Present the two columns parallel to each other with a comfortable hand-width gap so the surfaces “speak” without touching.
- Keep a small offset from the wall to let light rake the sides and create animated reflections.
- Align both bases on a single datum line; if used near a doorway or window, center the pair on the opening.
Mounting & Safety
- Each column sits on a square metal base and must be mechanically fixed: concealed floor anchors or a plinth with internal bolts.
- Use leveling feet or shims to achieve perfect verticality; tighten to eliminate any rocking.
- In public settings, add a discreet anti-tip bracket or pin and, if required, a low standoff barrier.
- Verify subfloor load capacity at fixings; do not rely on adhesives alone.
Lighting
- Even, high-CRI lighting (CRI 90+, 3000–4000 K).
- Use soft overhead or raked sidelight; avoid tight spotlights that create harsh points of glare.
- Keep surrounding tones neutral so reflections provide the color.
Clearances & Access
- Maintain comfortable circulation in front of the work; avoid placing furniture within the viewing cone.
- For public venues, retain standard accessibility clearances along adjacent paths.
Care & Handling
- Handle with clean cotton or nitrile gloves; lift from the base—never from the polished skin.
- Clean with a microfiber cloth and pH-neutral solution only; no abrasives, paper towels or ammonia.
- Periodically check fixings and re-level if needed.
Environment
Suitable for interior display; if placed near entrances, protect from de-icing salts and abrasive dust.
1/2 Relational Works
The Pillar (2013) — vertical freestanding Mercury sculpture
The Column (2013) — large outdoor version
The Blade (2013) — tall, sharp monolithic form
7 Acts of Chaos (2013) — multiple upright Mercury forms
