Glass is not the most common of mediums to use to create sculptural works. Perhaps because of its inherently “cold” quality.
...the computer has become an extension to his sketchbook.
Add colour, texture and a sense of movement, however, and the coldness of glass seems to dissolve into nothingness. This is precisely the sensation elicited when viewing Kane Calì’s work.
Exhibiting a series of works collectively titled Ripple Landscape, this is Mr Calì’s first solo exhibition at Christine X Art (Artitude) Gallery, 17, Tigné Street, Sliema. It opens to the public tomorrow.
Unlike most designer/makers, he generates his ideas in virtual spaces, often modelling 3D objects on the computer and then realising them as tangible objects through the use of new technologies (CNC machining). This leads him to use more traditional methods in order to produce finished work.
Using glass as a specialist medium gives Mr Calì the ability to fully exploit the inherent intricate subtleties only achievable through digital processes. Diversification of ideas and themes helps him keep things fresh, engaging and most importantly, challenging.
In his work, Mr Calì tries to encompass the natural world through science’s lens. His work is a metaphor for the one binding element that holds all things together – vibration. The work stemmed from the want and desire to capture a moment in time through the embodiment of a ripple and to illustrate its fundamental importance to the existence of all objects governed by the laws of matter.
Not only does Mr Calì borrow science’s perspective to aid in the creation processes, but also its technology. With the use of 3D modelling software, he engages in a method of manipulation unlike anything experienced with his own hands.
In some respect, the computer has become an extension to his sketchbook. To bring these virtual thoughts to life, he uses CNC machining or rapid prototyping to recreate the idea into a physical object.
From this point on, he uses more traditional methods such as mould-making, glass fusing/slumping and even investment-casting.
Mr Calì (b.1983) is a Maltese artist/designer living in the UK. He is currently following an MA at the Royal College of Art, London. His most recent project was collaborating on the winning design proposal of a “sculpture” created to adorn the new Skyparks Business Centre in Luqa, due to be inaugurated early next year.
• Ripple Landscape runs till December 21. The gallery’s opening hours are: Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. till 1 p.m. and from 4 till 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.christinexart.com or contact Christine X on christine@christinexart.com or 2131 6708/ 9984 4653.