Mats Ljus

Flip, 2006
Painted steel, 235 x 350 x 370 cm

The idea behind FLIP, with the flipped stair level, comes from an oceanic research vessel that can fill its stern with water and shift into a vertical position. Then when the boat’s stern tips, the stern post moves and becomes a four level structure with stairways. When the vessel returns to a horizontal position the stern post overturns so that the ground level acts as wall with stairways that lie diagonally overhead. FLIP comments also on the architecture in Umedalen’s former hospital area through its colors with the characteristic pink salmon hue. The straight, thin construction of this piece guides the viewer’s thoughts to line drawings as the border between sculpture and drawing approach a resolution.

Born in Säffle 1976. Lives and works in Umeå. Education: College of printmaking arts, Stockholm, Academy of Fine Arts, Umeå. Exhibitions in selection: Örebro Konsthall 2009, Kristinehamns Konstmuseum 2008, Marabouparken, Sundbyberg 2007, Bildmuséet, Umeå 2006, Konstens Hus,  Luleå 2002, Grafikriennal XII, Stockholm 2003, Skellefteå Konsthall, 2004, Galleri 60, Umeå 2005.