Bregje Sliepenbeek 12-10-1986 Amsterdam

Metal. Shiny and solid. Adorning the streets and the fields all around the world. Forged gates, wired fences, chains. I have always been attracted to these spontaneous acts of robust jewelry. In my work I try to catch this attraction by creating lightweight metal objects; tactile structures that host both fragility and strength. I’m interested in shifting the characteristics of a material, researching the possibilities of metal by treating it with a tactile approach. Transforming the metal into fluid, soft structures that are never fixed but in transition, responding to the movements and interactions of its immediate environment like daylight or movement from air currents. This results in slow-moving, tactile objects with a hypnotic effect. A portal for a hazy state of mind: a translation of my longing for a place of harmony and tranquility in a fast moving world.

The process of making and a high appreciation for the crafts is significant in my practice: a trance-like state of mind, a sensitive discourse with the material, endless repetition. Working with my hands is an important part of the process: it is a way of committing to my work. A ritual to connect with my material. The solid heavy tools and techniques that I use are in contrast with the fragile character of my work and this contradiction is what I find exciting. The practical, intensive exercise on one side and the delicate, light result on the other. This contradiction comes perfect together in the hardware store that I like to visit when in need for inspiration. Nails, chains, metal plates, wire, grills. I find them highly poetic. These shiny metal objects trigger my imagination and I feel the urge to take them out of their manly habitat and cherish them with a sensitive approach. Transform their practical use into something fluid, feminine and ethereal. Hardware to software.