Institute of Coexistence – Georg Jagunov
The fourth exhibition of the WAMx 2022 exhibition series Institute of Coexistence presents Georg Jagunov’s project Ancylus and Dana, which reflects on how we can at present day reconnect with geological and biological domains that have been around for many millions of years.
For the last 5 years Georg Jagunov has been working on indoor biotope installations (i.e. Geosanctuaries). These enclosed micro-landscapes refer to 80 million year old flint formations in Denmark, the post-glacial landscapes of Northern Europe, prehistoric archeology and ancient mythology of Denmark and Finland.
The interdisciplinary practice behind the biotope installations is being developed in collaboration with experts from various scientific and creative fields. The amount of light and moisture inside the biotope is controlled via a programmable system to create optimal conditions for plants. The installation at WAMx is Jagunov’s biggest up to date measuring around 4 m2. The stones and mosses have been collected by the artist on various locations in Denmark and Finland. Wandering into a landscape to find elements for his installations is an essential part of Jagunov’s artistic practice.
The artist aims to create spaces for contemplation and focus. While primarily working with local (North European) material, Jagunov’s installations draw inspiration from Zen gardens and other Japanese techniques of arranging stones, mosses and plants. A voice narrative can be heard through the earphones attached to the installation. In a journey through time and space the visitors get to discover and experience hidden geochemical realms and ancient worlds of green.
Photo: Rosa Huuska, Museum Centre of Turku.
WAMx: Institute of Coexistence
Institute of Coexistence is created in response to the current ecological, social, and biological crises. The aim is to reflect on and investigate alternative ways of coexistence that may create a better world. The physical and theoretical framework of the exhibition series has been created by Danish artist Gry Worre Hallberg. The exhibitions have been chosen by curator Mikkel Elming and Worre Hallberg, in co-operation with WAM.