Roger Hiorns

Acquired directly from the artist by the present owner

Colour: The colours in the catalogue illustration are fairly accurate. Condition: This work is in very good condition. Upon close inspection, there is some light wear to a few of the extreme edges and peaks of the paper elements.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Roger Hiorns is an artist of alchemy and the uncontrollable, using eclectic materials including detergent, disinfectant, perfume and other chemical solutions, to crystallize and transform the readymade, creating living, changing sculptures. In this work, Hiorns grows crystals on a cardboard architectural maquette, testing the object's status and significance. He explains that whilst he creates sculptural objects, they are also extensions of psychological thought; a fear of losing control of one's personal structures. Leaning Chartres With Cobalt and Copper Crystals from his Goldsmiths degree show in 1996, gives an element of autonomy to the artwork; there is a point at which the artist must stand back and allow the chemical reactions to create their own aesthetic, enabling Hiorns to take an objective role in the process. It is the artist's intention to create a new phase for his selected objects, to de-identify and subsequently alter their inherent qualities, often achieving haunting and mesmerising results.