The Cultural Center of the Bank of Brazil (CCBB São Paulo) is hosting the first large-scale exhibition of Amsterdam-based Studio Drift. Following its success in Rio de Janeiro, this marks the second stop of the exhibition in Brazil.
At the heart of the exhibition lies the theme “Vida em Coisas” or “Life in Things” – an exploration of the possibility of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. Designers and artists Lonneke Gordein and Ralph Nauta utilize light as a fundamental element of their art to delve into the intricate relationship between people, nature, and technology, offering viewers a poignant reconnection with the planet.
Alfons Hug, one of the exhibition curators, notes that by placing light as a central component of their artistic compositions, Studio Drift “highlights the idleness of everyday life and the futility of human activity,” prompting contemplation not only about the contemporary world but also about our origins, as light, originating from afar, carries traces of the distant past. Brazilian curator Marcello Dantas elucidates further, stating, “Behind their work lies the belief that nature and technology can coexist harmoniously, whether through the bionic realm or the concept of animism, where all entities – animals, natural phenomena, and even inanimate objects – possess a spirit that interconnects them.”
This notion of “animism” is vividly expressed in Studio Drift’s work, such as transforming robots into flowers or through mesmerizing sculptures like Shylight, which mimics the nocturnal movement of flowers closing. While human-made objects often retain fixed forms, Studio Drift’s creations challenge this notion, showcasing the perpetual metamorphosis and adaptability inherent in nature. Moreover, animated objects are imbued with character and emotions, as Dantas adds, “By studying living organisms and attempting to replicate their behaviors artificially, we begin to develop a shared understanding and language, symbolically synchronizing with them.”
A notable aspect of the exhibition is the collaboration between Studio Drift and Brazilian design studio Estúdio Campana. Drawing inspiration from the iconic All Animals Banquete chair by Fernando and Umberto Campana, Studio Drift incorporates its materials into art objects as part of its Materialism series, offering visitors a visual dialogue between design iconography and contemporary artwork.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this thought-provoking exhibition, where art transcends boundaries to explore the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world.
