by Martin Rickles Studio
Maybe I’m just asking you to pay closer attention to the land.
—Maya Lin, Boundaries
Transmuted Tracings began with the creation of a land boundary at a site in Rabun Gap, GA. The boundary was informed by features which implied edges in the landscape—the convergence of a grassy field, sandy path, and a sparkling river bank. Over the course of several hours spent reading, observing, and gathering materials from the defined site, the abstracted boundary was filled with a grid of survey ribbon, twine, and braided yellow mason line (all materials derived from a nearby hardware store). Additionally, the gathered materials were collaged in situ onto cyanotype paper. Following this exercise, the land boundary and collected objects were moved to a different setting where they were catalogued and acted upon within the context of their new site.
In shedspace and its adjacent yard, the work is again transmuted. The boundary weaving is re-installed within the yard. The other collaged objects are re-interpreted within shedpace, where a richer and more layered interpretation of sites past and present is enacted. The cyanotype prints have been digitally re-collaged into a repeating patter and risograph printed in shades of blue. Here they are envisioned as a lacy wall covering behind a false forest facade.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Martin Rickles Studio (MRS) uses a combination of informative and generative approaches including field research, precedent research, interviews, drawing, collage, model-making (digital and physical), discussion, debate, material studies, mock-ups, and prototypes. Their current body of work is focused on researching and developing unconventional methods to analyze, represent, and perhaps even understand “sites” as more than a sum total of abstracted line (topography, door swings, setbacks), units of measurement (inches, acres, square footage), or notations presented as finite dictums (align, not in scope, match existing). By experimenting with the transmutability of site information through mediums such as recordings, found objects, installations, observation, and writing, MRS seeks to engage senses and sensations towards a fuller comprehension of place.
Jennifer Martin and Carley Rickles, interdisciplinary designers and artists, co-founded MRS—a shared professional and creative practice which spans and interweaves the disciplines of urban design, architecture, landscape design, interior design, graphic design, scholarship, and art. Martin and Rickles find common ground in a working process which is sensitive, rooted in science, inspired by theory, and responsive to the shifting needs of a warming environment, clients, society, and self. Their partnership was formed out of a mutual love for land art, patterns, ceramics, landscapes, vistas, trees, chairs, windows, steps, slopes, leaves, draperies, grasses, rooms, paths…
Installation shots by Dessa Lohrey.