Statement
Over the past seven years one aspect of my studio practice has been an investigation of site-related/site-specific installations. Specifically – but not exclusively – I have created sculptural installations within sacred spaces. Working in this manner I am interested in the history of the site, the religious rites that take place within there, and the architectural iconography of the site. The last is of particular interest as it operates as a signifier for the other two. Unlike traditional exhibitions in white box gallery spaces, these sited installations involve interaction with the site’s congregation, and extensive research and development for preliminary proposals that describe and negotiate the conceptual and aesthetic integration of the sculpture to the site. Consequently, all of the above affect and determine the outcome of the final installation. Furthermore, the research for these site-related installations inevitably generates ideas that extend into other aspects of my studio practice. The images of five site and discreet object sculptures are recent examples.
— Nicholas Kripal
