Aranda/Lasch

number one from an edition of eight

Julie Eakin, "Unnatural Phenomena," Architecture, October 2006, front cover (for an image of the "Camouflage View" screen from the Reford Gardens)
Benjamin Aranda & Chris Lasch, Tooling, New York, 2006, pp. 46-51

Overall in very good condition. The screen is modular and comes apart into six elements, each comprising of multiple folds of the screen. The pieces are held together by magnets and the arrangement is dictated by configurations of the magnets. Each panel has a specific pattern, which allows one to discern which element attaches to which. Each of the screens with minor surface scratches to the mirror-polished side. The reverse brushed surface with very minor paint residue and surface scratches. Three of the panels with significant light surface scratches to the mirror-polished side that appear the result of cleaning the surface with a slightly abrasive agent. One panel with a slight dent to the upper portion, which is slightly visible in the middle of the screen in the catalogue illustration. One lower corner also with a slight dent, which is diminished in appearance once the screen is assembled. This screen with its near perfect mirrored surfaces and dramatic cutouts creates a striking multi-planar sculpture that reflects all of its surrounding, while also allowing the viewer to see through the structure. An extraordinary form, not easily captured in a photograph.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

"Camouflage Screen disguises itself in plain sight.  Using laser-cut stainless steel, the surroundings are seen in the reflections but one can also see through the screen's pattern of openings.  This confusing of foreground and background is a common strategy in animal camouflage, the inspiration behind the piece.  The design is about producing a distortion wherever it is placed, indoors or outdoors."

-Benjamin Aranda

 

 

This design was initially presented as a larger permanent garden installation in Reford Gardens/Jardins de Metis in Québec in 2005.  Aranda and Lasch were recently awarded the 2007 Young Architect's Award from the Architectural League of New York.