From a Square via a Trapezoid into the Air

In a particular part of a forest in a nature reserve that caught my eye, I found the four spruce trees I was looking for, arranged in a roughly square formation. Here the organic elements serve as the foundation for the construction, becoming the very essence of “making a place”.

Here I imagined a floating trapezoid. Its shape was clear and the construction gradually took shape, following a specific plan while adapting to the inherent irregularities of nature. A thin, but clearly visible, green rope was pulled around the structure. Despite its transparent nature, it transformed the monotony of the forest, providing a sense of shelter when sitting underneath and drawing the eye upwards – a trapezoidal dome over your head.

During the process of creating the installation I came across various animal skeletons. It became clear that many animals had sought refuge in this particular place to die. This discovery adds an extra dimension to the installation, transforming it into a monument to the animals that have died – a passageway to another world.

An opening path increases the accessibility of the installation. However, when a visitor stumbles upon this place on their own, without any prior knowledge or guidance, it takes on an even greater significance. It transcends its intrinsic qualities and truly becomes a place in its own right.

Technical advice and support from Roger and Jan De Vos, Frank Vaerten and Luk Vermeerbergen