Splitting

A massive, naturally black steel block of approximately 200 kg weight is pierced through by smooth cylindrical rods.  The rods have split the block and caused more than half of it to open up.  It is a matter of time before the crack widens further.

The rods in the steel block convey a sense of enormous energy, strong enough to split it apart. This impression of force becomes almost visible in the gleaming reflection of the rods. Polishing represents the highest energy level of the metal, a symbol of our technical prowess.

‘Splitting’ recalls the way that stone was split in the ancient world.  The Romans drilled holes in the stone along a predetermined line into which they then hammered wooden pegs.  They poured water onto the wood and as it swelled a force built up sufficient to split the stone.  Even freezing water can produce the same force.

Marble in the ancient world was not only a material for construction but also proof of technical, cultural and religious status.  In our time we create our status symbols in steel.

Steel for us is indestructible.  With steel we can divide, form and master – and split apart.