Universal Expander (245)
Wall sculptures, 2021
Permanent work for public space, Rosenapelgatan 22 preschool,
Municipality of Gothenburg, Sweden
Sheet steel, aluminum profiles, car paint
Various sizes
Universal Expander (245) is a number of three-dimensional panels of sheet steel in different sizes and colours, placed on the preschool walls in a map-like arrangement. The sculptures are based on organic and geometric shapes taken from the school’s immediate surroundings; both natural landscapes and urban landscapes with associated industries. The choice of materials such as sheet steel and car paint is linked to the car manufacturing industry that is present in the area (the title refers to a Volvo car model). By combining references to both the natural and the artificial, the design sheds light on the complex interplay between man and the environment in today’s high-tech world.
The sculptures act as a kind of puzzle pieces, clues or keys that can be used to explore the surroundings with new eyes; to find new connections between different patterns and structures. Through the sculptural collage, the children are encouraged to create their own associations, thoughts and stories.