[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/embed/JO0VvGCnt5k[/youtube]
Artist Susanne Schmidt-Nielsen, Denmark, shares with us one of her recent site-specific installation projects, About an Overcoat, which was shown last month at PAKHUSET Nykoebing Sjaelland, Denmark. I have watched her work evolve on HAF for the past 2 years. There is a thematic parallel between this particular work of Susanne’s and her previous installation projects. Her generally monochromatic pallet embraces organic forms, emphasizing shapes and surface textures. Susannne has exhibited in both solo and group shows throughout Denmark and in Italy.
HAF: I have noticed a thematic parallel in your recent installation projects. What is it about this theme and medium that allows you to revisit?
Susanne: This artwork has evolved over the years, and it still has a significance as part of my production of work, that revolves around my preoccupation with human conditions and the way we handle these. Sewing and working with textile is wonderful. It is flexible, not like wood; you can easily add on …bend and change.
The exhibition space gave me an opportunity to rework the artwork into an installation in such a size that you could walk in between the individual objects. So you can be in a dialog with them body to body. This installation is how I have always wished this artwork could be shown. Susanne Schmidt-Nielsen
HAF: Talk about the emotions this body of work carries.
Susanne: The objects grow from an emotion, a feeling in my body. This emotion is also part of my guidance in the process of making. The handling of the material also carries a story, but to me, it is important to keep my artwork open. I am happy if it gives the viewer an opportunity to reflect and interpret one’s own story into the artwork– or even “just” experience the artwork with sensuousness.
HAF: Talk a little about your work process. Do you always know the direction of a particular work?
Susanne: I don’t have a fixed picture in my mind but rather a feeling, something to express, but I may have an idea of what the final work looks like. It may change along the way of creating. The handling of the material is a part of the expression and story. The string pulls hard– the patches, the smooth surface and the placing of the objects as well. In rows, little boxes are organized, as a scientist would do.