Ways of imagination.

Ways of imagination (inspired by A.Durer's woodcut "Rhinoceros", 1515).

2012. Mosaic glass on glass. 91 x 61 cm 

Genius Albrecht Durer made his drawing of the Rhinoceros in 1515 based on a verbal descriptions. He has never seen a real Rhinoceros. He was curious. 

This image of the Rhino has been famous for almost 500 hundred years now, and has inspired many other artworks including the beautiful sculpture of the Rhino made by Salvador Dali.

I used his drawing as a base for my own study of human imagination.  What makes the story in this mosaic? What do you see in this mosaic?

Is this a baby Rhino or a strong and mighty adult warrior?  Do you see aggression, joy or curiosity? A pool of blood or … cranberry juice from the bamboo forest? Is it just a curious animal smelling something red or a champion looking at the blood after a colossal fight? Is the Rhino wearing a strong shield or a fuzzy sweater made by the Rhino’s grandma?

The central part of the composition is the Rhino, no doubt about that. But for story behind the piece, you have to change your perspective and start from the bottom corner…

It is amazing how one small piece of unique red and green glass can change the whole story. Depending on the interpretation of the red puddle, you can imagine completely different things. It is amazing how one piece of glass or one little touch can adjust your feelings and will make you smile or frown.

Durer said in his work that the Rhino’s skin resembles a turtle’s shell and that the Rhino is a very joyful animal. These thoughts pushed me to wonder which colors Durer would use for this mighty piece.

  

Unique and rare glass was used in this mosaic. Some of the glass is out of production and is nowhere to be found today. This work is a tribute to the beauty of stained glass, to the genius of Durer and to the intricacy of human imagination.

UPD. 28.06.2021 Glass Herd of Durer's Rhinos. 2020-2021+2012 - here