Artist Info: Laurent Grasso is a French artist who bases his practice out of both Paris and New York. He completed his schooling at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris and has since been recognized for his achievements in the art world. Grasso has shown his work at numerous exhibitions around the world and has participated in a number of international biennials. In 2008 he was awarded with Prix Marcel Duchamp for his work in the field of conceptual art. Many of Grasso's works revolve around his interest in studying science and history.
'Soleil du Nuit' was opened just a few months ago, in the spring of 2013. The work sits in two parts - a series of three rotating metal balls right outside the entrance to the Commonwealth Rec Centre and a neon light sculpture with the words 'Soleil du Nuit' close to another nearby parking lot. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to see the neon lights when I visited this work but I included a link at the bottom that contains TONS of images of this piece. The artwork is supposed to be about the varying amounts of light we get during the summer and winter months, particularly touching upon the small amount of daylight we get during this time of year. The rotating balls are intended to catch the light and create a shimmering, disco-like effect. The work uses the natural light during the day and is electrically lit at night. Grasso mentioned that he hoped the work would catch the eye of a passersby and they would be led by their curiosity to inspect the work further. Grasso also mentioned that the light-catching balls are supposed to reference early Canadian settlers who used mirrors to communicate to each other across large distances.
The work has been somewhat controversial since its installation. Just like the Talus Dome, some individuals are upset that the commission was given to an international artist instead of a local. According to the Edmonton Arts Council the work was selected by a panel out of many pieces. They selected the work because they liked the idea behind the piece and thought the international status of the artist would give a global feel to the city.
My Thoughts: I am quite drawn to this work. I had been told about the 'lollipop sculpture' but did not know the name of the piece and could not figure out where it was in the city. I was definitely excited to stumble upon it while heading to the rec centre last week! I remember walking up to the sculpture and being unsure if the work was actually moving. I stood still for a few seconds and was pleasantly surprised to find that the work itself slowly rotates! I have visited many pieces since starting this blog and very rarely get to see a moving work in action.
I know this piece has been controversial because the artist is from France. While I understand the argument to give commissions to local artists, I do tend to agree with the EAC in the importance of including international artists to give the city a global feel. The city is becoming a large, world-recognized destination. It is nice to be able to show that we are welcoming to outsiders as well as our own artists. Furthermore, showing we support international art is the only way to have international cities support our own artists.
What do you think? Do you like this piece? Do you agree or disagree with my argument in support of international art?
Here is this link mentioned above with additional images of the artwork: http://blogs.edmontonjournal.com/2013/06/10/2o13-o6-1o-day-for-night/
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