BENJAMIN A. H. HARPSØE
05.05.23 – 10.08.23

Horde Formation

Benjamin A. H. Harpsøe’s investigation lies in the interplay between the digital, nature and spirituality, believing that these three realms are deeply interconnected and exploring their intersections can lead to a better understanding of the world.

Harpsøe’s sculptural practice is centered around the collection and archiving of plants. Utilizing imperfect scanning technology, the artist achieves a digital interpretation rather than pure registration, incorporating digital agency as part of his process. This method allows the creation of new speculative hybrids, which blur the boundaries between the natural and the artificial worlds, emphasized by the use of 3D printing as a means of production. Harpsøe aims to explore how technology can be used to reinterpret and reimagine the natural world, while honoring its inherent beauty and complexity.

An additional layer of expression and depth was added to Harpsøe’s practice when he began painting his sculptures. However, this also led to an increased production time, prompting the artist to explore other mediums that would allow for more immediate expression. Through painting, Harpsøe found a new way to explore the same themes and ideas underlying his sculptural practice.

Harpsøe believes that there is value in examining and adapting systems that allow us to view the world as alive and enriched, such as animism. By doing so, we can learn to value ephemeral objects, like digitally created artworks, beyond their beauty. Harpsøe is interested in exploring how this view of the world can be applied to the fabrication of artwork through both physical and digital means, creating a kind of alchemy that reconciles matter and spirit.

Harpsøe’s work invites viewers to contemplate the relationship between technology, nature and spirituality whilst considering how these realms intersect and influence each other.

Benjamin A. H. Harpsøe (DK 1986) holds a MFA from Malmö Art Academy, SE, and a BFA from The Royal Academy of Arts, NL. His work has been exhibited in places such as Charlottenborg, Copenhagen, DK, OK Corral, Copenhagen DK, Indebt Gallery, Amsterdam, NL, Pro Tempore.Art, Galleri Bo Bjerggaard, Copenhagen, DK and Galerie Ron Mandos, Amsterdam, NL.

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