Defect

Disposable convenience

In today's consumer society, convenience reigns supreme, leading to an abundance of goods aimed at simplifying life. Home appliances stand as a quintessential example of this trend. However, driven by global demand and a culture of replication, these appliances often suffer from standardised aesthetics and subpar mechanics. Consequently, their short lifespan inevitably consigns them to rubbish, perpetuating a cycle of wasteful consumption.

Paradoxical relationship with consumption

Casper Braat's ongoing sculpture series is a poignant commentary on this throwaway culture. Braat transforms these disposable appliances into enduring monuments by crafting them in marble and gold, imbuing them with a permanence that contrasts sharply with their ephemeral utility. Each sculpture serves as a testament to our society's paradoxical relationship with consumption—a celebration of the present moment at the expense of tomorrow's sustainability.

Symbols of reflection and critique

Unlike previous iterations of the "Forever" exhibition, where sculptures stood individually on pedestals, "Defect" - this latest instalment - presents a cohesive installation. Here, the sculptures merge seamlessly with broken household appliances, forming a symbolic graveyard of obsolete technologies. Braat's new series of marble objects showcases a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern digital techniques, resulting in technically intricate sculptures that leave viewers questioning their construction methods.

Braat's work challenges us to confront the consequences of our consumerist tendencies while also inviting contemplation on the intersection of art, technology, and sustainability. Through his series, he offers a glimpse into a future where the relics of our disposable culture are transformed into enduring symbols of reflection and critique.