Shield Cabinet

Date
2013

Material
Polished Stainless Steel

Dimensions
H170 x W140 x D50 cm (H67 x W55 x D20 in)

Materials and honesty to materials has always been a central constant through the work of Fredrikson Stallard from the very first concept. In many ways, the greater “Crush” collection is the epitome of this. The primary story with these pieces is one of form and process. All the pieces are formed by hand, in an archaic and intensely physical way. By creating the pieces in this manner there is only limited control that can be imparted on the object, as the metal itself has inherent qualities which make it behave as is in it’s nature. This is important, as often forms which are forced into existence merely by thought seem to lack an extra quality that can only be achieved through some degree of disconnection, as with the work of the abstract expressionists of the 20th century. The polished finish of the crush collection also adds a further dimension to the pieces. They reflect light into spaces in a fluid and changing way, adding an extra presence in their environment beyond their simple position in a room. They also take on everything in their surroundings through reflection in their surface, distorting surrounding colours in a completely abstract way that constantly changes with the movement of viewpoint, time and light. In this way they are truly inclusive objects.