Ellipsoïdes virtuels

Jesús Rafael Soto

Summary

In 1997, we realized the artwork "Ellipsoïdes virtuels" by Jesús Rafael Soto for the Dresdner Bank in Berlin. The monumental installation made of aluminum, stainless steel and lead measures 21 x 4 x 2 meters and was manufactured, transported and installed by us in the Eugen-Gutmann-Haus on Pariser Platz. The work shows how the precise arrangement of materials creates virtual ellipsoids that are set in motion solely in the eye of the beholder.

Services

Production, transportation and assembly

Project manager

Eckhard Diller

Client

Dresdner Bank AG, Berlin

Year

1997

A work of art between precision and illusion

In 1997, we realized one of the most impressive works by the Venezuelan artist Jesús Rafael Soto for Dresdner Bank: the installation "Ellipsoïdes virtuels". Our task included the precise production of the large-format elements made of aluminum, stainless steel and lead, as well as the professional transport and demanding installation in the Eugen-Gutmann-Haus on Pariser Platz.

The work itself is a fascinating example of kinetic art. By playing with lines and structures, "virtual" ellipsoids are created that are not materially present, but only come to life in the eye of the beholder. The construction required the utmost precision, as the effect can only be achieved through millimeter-precise production and perfect tension of the materials.

The installation in the middle of the prestigious architecture of the Eugen Gutmann House was not only a technical challenge, but also an aesthetic one. Our aim was to integrate the work in such a way that it could unfold its full effect and at the same time correspond harmoniously with the room.

View of the sculpture from the first floor of Dresdner Bank

Jesús Rafael Soto - Master of kinetic illusion

Jesús Rafael Soto (1923-2005) is one of the most important representatives of kinetic art. Born in Venezuela and based in Paris from 1950, he developed works that focus on movement and illusion. His works are characterized by the active role of the viewer: vibrating forms, oscillating spaces and immaterial structures only emerge through the viewer's movement. His works can be found in museums, public spaces and major collections around the world.

A piece of eventful art history on Pariser Platz

With the realization of "Ellipsoïdes virtuels", we were able to successfully implement a complex,
technically and artistically challenging project and contribute to
making one of the most important works of kinetic art a permanent experience in Berlin.