Rotterdam-based Sicilian artist Giuseppe Licari presents a network of tree roots hanging from the ceiling like unusual, organic chandeliers. His site-specific installation titled Humus features the extended prickly roots of trees affixed to the top of his exhibition space, transforming the room into a sort of underground lair. It's as though visitors are getting an exclusive peek at the hidden world beneath a park or forest.
While roots are conventionally buried deep in the earth and towering trees are exposed as they rise high into the sky, Licari has taken an alternative approach to introducing nature into contemporary culture. The artist reveals a hint of nature in this otherwise modern setting by opting to display the tree roots like some sort of suspended furniture.
The installation welcomes visitors to walk amongst the hanging structures, rich with interpretation. The space itself is as much a part of Licari's installation as the sculptural tree stumps and roots that audiences must navigate themselves around. Humus was Licari's contribution to the group exhibition titled Secret Gardens, which sought to go back to our roots–an era that predated digital reliance.
Photo credits: [Job Janssen & Jan Adriaans , Ed Jansen]
Giuseppe Licari website
via [Sweet Station]
