As an artist collective with a deep affinity for experimental sculpture and social reflection, participating in the wood sculpture symposium “Van Spitz” in the Valle dei Mocheni was a special honor and enrichment for us. Our sculpture “II + I = IV” is part of our “Cruxials” series, a body of work that has accompanied and inspired us for years. This series is characterized by the iconic cross shape, which we interpret and utilize in various ways to address universal themes. The “Cruxials” are not religious crosses in the traditional sense but rather metaphors for the individual burdens and challenges that each person carries throughout their life. This was also how visitors at the event understood it.
The sculpture “II + I = IV” touches on themes that are not only personally meaningful to us but also hold broad social relevance: the division of roles between man and woman, the balance between personal and professional life, and the question of responsibility each individual has for themselves and others, standing in solidarity and responsibility. The figures, arranged in our typical cross shape one above the other, symbolize the interplay and dependencies of these forces. Each figure supports the next, while the lowest figure bears the weight of the entire structure, a symbol of the silent bearers in our society who often go unnoticed.
The interplay of form and symbolism becomes particularly impressive in the setting of the Valle dei Mocheni. The sculpture rises from a raw, still-rooted tree stump and seems to merge with nature while simultaneously struggling against it in its human form. The color scheme (the raw, untreated wood and contrasting layers of color) is intended to give the work additional expressive power, highlighting the figures visually as if they were born from the tree itself. This underscores the close connection between nature, humanity, and art.
Another aspect particularly close to our hearts is the interpretation of the sculpture by the viewers. The simple, almost primitive visual language leaves ample room for individual associations. Some visitors saw in the sculpture a family, where each person has their place and responsibility, while others interpreted the figures as a critique of modern work society, where individuals often collapse under the weight of excessive expectations. This exchange with the audience is essential for us as artists because it shows us that our works are not static but are alive and constantly gaining new meanings in dialogue with the viewers.
Participation in the “Van Spitz” symposium provided us with the opportunity to present our work to an international audience while also forming a deeper connection with the local culture and community. The community of Frassilongo and the organizers of the symposium created an environment where art could flow freely and inspire. Particularly the support from local institutions like the Pro Loco di Frassilongo, the Comunità Alta Valsugana Bersntol, and the restaurant Van Spitz, which offered great support to the artists, made this symposium a special event. This collaboration created a creative space where artists not only created their works but also found new inspiration for themselves.
The sculpture “II + I = IV” remains at this location as a symbol of human relationships and challenges, a quiet reminder that everyone has their own cross to bear, but that everyone, in whatever role, supports and shapes a part of the whole. We hope that this work will continue to have an impact in the coming years and inspire visitors to reflect. For us, the symposium was an unforgettable experience that enriched and inspired us as artists. Thank you!
Trento 2017
