Aurum

Aurum

Highly coveted, mystical, and rare: Gold is one of the greatest fascinations in the history of human culture. It is also one of the most original materials in art.

With "Aurum," Benjamin Burkard not only alludes to the illustrious yet martial social history of the precious metal but also ventures into a completely new exploration of the material, both technically and aesthetically. To create an innovative gold coloration technique, he utilizes the element along with its properties, manipulating it through chemical processes, physical refractions, layering, and etching, thereby taming it into a tool that is both obedient and unique. In doing so, he also evokes a symbolic reinterpretation. He envelops insects and weeds in a cloak of gold, abstracting their perceived lack of value by deliberately presenting a paradox: Does the gold elevate these lowly entities of nature, or does the precious metal experience a devaluation through its contextualization with these mundane life forms?

Stylistically aligned with Surrealism and Symbolism, Burkard opens a highly engaging dialogue with the viewer, culminating in a virtuoso play of connotations and antitheses.

Benjamin Burkard – Aurum @ 30works Opening: September 28, 2019, 7:30 PM Exhibition: September 28 to October 19, 2019

Opening hours: Tue - Sat 12-6 PM

30works Gallery - Pfeilstr. 47 - 50672 Cologne - 0221/33779999 - www.30works.de