Commission looks to create a kind of contemplative space
A sculptural commission in Brighton this summer integrates materials and iconography from different religious communities.
Kiosk by Wolfgang Weileder runs until August 30 (Wednesday-Sunday 12-6pm, closed Mondays and Tuesdays except Bank Holidays) at Fabrica.
Spokesman Amandine Butticaz said: “This summer Fabrica, Brighton’s centre for contemporary art, will launch Kiosk, a new sculpture, almost five metres in diameter, by German artist Wolfgang Weileder that integrates the materials of one religious community (Christian) with the iconography of another (Islamic).
“Constructed from redundant church pews, it consciously draws on the visual language of Islamic architecture to create a new kind of contemplative space, one that looks for common cultural and spiritual ground in our diverse society.
“Best known for his sitespecific installations in public spaces that create new, temporary buildings, Wolfgang Weileder explores how we engage with civic space and architecture, and how we negotiate it as a social space. More recently Weileder has focused directly on how public space is occupied, inhabited and used – and the types of interactions we are able to have.
“As a former religious site, Fabrica provides a unique architectural context for the work that can be actively drawn on to discuss traditional and contemporary attitudes to sacred space and its architectural language.
“Kiosk is participatory and interactive.
“All visitors should be able to actively engage with the artwork and become part of the dialogue. Whilst Covid-19 restrictions permit, visitors will be able to enter Kiosk, sit and spend time.
“Interaction will be encouraged between different visitors on a one-to-one and group-to-group basis via regular opening hours and special events.
“Kiosk seeks to negotiate cultural difference as a tangible symbol of religious diversity and respect and by providing a focus for discussion and other events that lead to greater understanding and tolerance of each other as well as a place where diverse communities will meet.
“Kiosk is also originally a word used in Persia to describe a garden pavilion that was used for contemplation and social interaction. In the west, it is now commonly used to refer to a small shop in an urban context.”
Liz Whitehead, director, Fabrica, said: “We are delighted to be exhibiting this new work which responds to our building and its history as a former place of worship. Recuperation and attaining a sense of peace through thoughtful reflection, prayer or meditation are common to all major religions and humanist practices, and religious architecture feels as if it’s made to support this process. Kiosk highlights this beautifully and offers visitors a space to find a few moments of quietude whatever their beliefs are. Just now, coming out of the worst of the pandemic, creating an opportunity for quiet contemplation seems like a helpful thing to do.”
Liz added: “Nestled within Brighton’s historic lanes, Fabrica is a space where everyone can experience art.
“Through immersive exhibitions and commissions, we introduce visitors to the work of celebrated international artists.
“At the same time, we support and commission emerging artists, giving them the financial and creative support to make engaging and thought-provoking work.
“This way, art is always here to surprise, challenge and inspire our communities.
“Cultural experiences at Fabrica are often immersive, shaped around our Grade II listed building.
“No prior knowledge of art is needed to step inside, and to engage, enjoy and respond.”