Mastering Disaster. Nature and Fiction by Martina Dempf

Artist list

Martina Dempf

At NIROX, Martina collects elements from the natural environment of the park, with their intrinsic natural power. By transforming wood, roots, seeds etc. in an experimental artistic way, and in combination with multiple materials like metal, glass, stone or hair, they undergo a metamorphosis into art pieces with a new and expanded connotation. The jewellery and objects created address the cultural relationship of man and nature and the desire for metaphysical protection of the human body and its environment.
The residency takes place in collaboration with the University of Johannesburg, Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture (UJ FADA), Jewellery Department and FADA Gallery.

Martina’s inspiration is driven by the theme Mastering Disaster – Nature and Fiction. The jewellery and objects created address the cultural relationship of man and nature and the desire for metaphysical protection of the human body and its environment. The haptic sensation of her amulets in the shape of necklaces, pendants, brooches or rings triggers a new experience lost by technical overkill.
 
The works created during the residency are exhibited at Villa Legodi starting the 8th of March, together with selected jewellery from Martina’s studio collection in Berlin. The exhibition is accompanied by twenty photographs on spiritual spheres taken worldwide by Martina over the last two decades. A video on jewellery and dance, directed by Cristina Perera, Brazil, will complete the show.