The Found Foundation
Andreas Gehr
October 23, 1985 – April 1, 1986
Andreas Gehr, The Found Foundation, 1985; spruce; 55' L x 16' H x 3' W
Swiss-born Andreas Gehr's massive work (55' long x 16' high) is a house-like structure constructed of spruce in the traditional post-and-beam building technique. Its shape is reminiscent of a child's drawing, sketched without reference to the rules of perspective. This sense of a two-dimensional rendering of a three-dimensional object is enhanced by placing the sculpture on an uneven footing, using the set of radiating concrete steps 'found' on site as the foundation for the work.
This wedge-shaped installation suggests both assault and protection, comfort and intimidation, depending on how the work is approached. Seen from King Street, the structure appears to be a sharp-edged impenetrable object. However, the opposite end of the sculpture is open, offering an inviting, womb-like shelter. The interior has been kept dark to provide the visitor with an experience distinct from the natural environment.
The work almost bisects the Garden, and in doing so makes the resultant spaces more intimate. Its towering presence and austere detailing reflect the Gothic finials and spire of the nearby St. James' Cathedral and is in keeping with the scale of the Georgian architecture of neighbouring buildings.
The title of the work has its roots in Gehr's belief that artists do not have the same foundations to their lives as other people -- that generally, their economic footings and social standings are not as safe and predictable and that working without these supports instills in artists a sense of daring, making them more flexible and adaptive in their approach to life and to the creative process.
Text by Rina Greer
