Jorg Glascher’s extraordinary collection of wave formations crafted from deadwood seamlessly marries nature’s raw elements with profound artistic vision. Positioned in a serene forest near Hamburg, these nine colossal structures emerge from the forest floor like nature’s own tumultuous masterpieces. Crafted during a time when the relentless tides of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life, Gläscher’s waves symbolize a reflection on the all-encompassing force of nature, which, much like the virus, has the power to halt the momentum of even the mightiest nations. His keen understanding of the natural world’s inherent dynamism is mirrored in each wave, a demonstration of his artistic prowess and deep connection to the environment.
The art installation beckons us to ponder the delicate balance and formidable power within natural cycles. Glascher’s deliberate choice of material — deadwood — serves as a poignant metaphor for both decay and regeneration, with each piece lending its former life to construct scenes of immense power and beauty. The tactile, intricate assembly of each wave stirs the senses, drawing parallels between the cyclic nature of pandemics and the perpetual ebb and flow of tides. His use of natural elements underscores the omnipotence of ecological forces, suggesting that even in states of destruction and chaos, there lies a profound beauty and an opportunity for renewal. The installation provokes a contemplative dialogue about humanity’s intertwined fate with nature, urging an introspective appreciation of its awe-inspiring power.
I was working (with the idea of) the pure power of nature, the all-destroying force, which brings one of the richest countries in the world to a completely still stand. A wave is a periodic oscillation or a unique disturbance the state of a system.
Jorg Glascher
More info: Website, Instagram (h/t: This Isn’t Happiness).