Fundamente
2022
15 Concrete Elements
Various sizes
Art and Architecture
Oberstufenschulhaus Looren, Gemeinde Maur
Dahinden Heim Partner Architekten
Kunstbetrieb Münchenstein
Inspired by the forms and function of building foundations hidden beneath the earth, Esther Mathis has designed 15 concrete elements for the courtyard of the Looren school building. Foundations provide a solid structure and ensure safety. Mathis also sees the bowl as a symbol of protection and security.
Students can position themselves sitting, standing or lying down, thereby creating their own constantly changing compositions. They become active sculptures on visible foundations, and the shells offer them additional support and stability.
The secondary school years are a phase full of decisions; plans for the years ahead take shape and one is forced to take a stand. For Mathis, during that time it was immensely valuable that she could count on the support of her parents, teachers and those around her. They formed the foundation that supported and elevated her, whilst at the same time acting as the shell that cradled and embraced her.
Mathis creates spaces that embody this diversity of qualities; she designs places of retreat as well as vantage points, where the students are the central figures.