Lucciole

Lucciole.

Open Studio, Beast AIR

16 Dec - 31 Dec 2023

Østermarie, Bornholm (DK)

Experimenting with luminescence, an optical phenomenon that releases a certain amount of light, which can last for hours or days if exposed for a long time to UV or natural light, a constellation of images slowly unveil themselves. They appear in the darkness like fireflies, Lucciole, minuscule images that are glimpsed, shining for a few moments before gradually dimming.

Immersed in the development of a site-specific installation inspired by the darkness of the island's winter of Bornholm (DK), artist Giorgia Lo Faso showcases in this open studio her residency project during the time at Beast AIR. Each day, she paints glow-in-the-dark images on several wall pieces. These pieces, physically detached from her studio in Utrecht, were meticulously transported in her luggage, layered amidst clothes and underwear.

Figures and fragments of several images were mainly sourced and selected after visiting a weekly activity of some locals in the Østermarie village. For the past two years, every Thursday, a group of 75-year-olds gathers to discuss and collect photos, sharing local news, in the romantic attempts to archive everyday life on the island.

"Informed by restoration methods, my approach has been deeply influenced by the study of how conservator employ various imaging techniques. These methods such as the use of ultraviolet lights allow gathering information imperceptible to the naked eye. It provides insights into material origins, its journey through time, offering clues about its provenance and historical trajectory"

Visitors navigating the space with portable UV lamps slowly activated the installation, resembling a group of explorers. Their performative actions expanded and altered a distinct sense of space within the exhibition.

Photos & text by the artist