TIMELESS ROTS
FREDRIKSTAD, NORWAY
"Deep in the heart of Fredrikstad, among forested hills and quiet rivers, lies a treasure from the past - rock carvings that tell stories of those before us. Inspired by these ancient drawings, a ceramic work called Timeless Roots was created.
On the surface of this ceramic art piece, one can see a pattern of rock carvings, carefully assembled to capture the essence of the original drawings. These carvings reveal moments from the past, depicting hunting scenes, human figures, and wildlife that once roamed freely in this landscape. They are like windows into the Viking era, telling the story of those who lived and explored these forests thousands of years ago.
Timeless Roots is a ceramic wall art piece consisting of five parts. In certain cultures and philosophical traditions, the number five is associated with the five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and ether (or spirit). These elements often represent different aspects of the universe and human existence.
All parts of the work are hexagonal in shape. The hexagon is known for its regular form and symmetry, often representing stability, balance, and order in art. The hexagon is abundant in nature, such as in honeycomb cells, snowflakes and crystal structures. Therefore, it can symbolize nature’s order, efficiency, and harmony. In some cultures and traditions, the hexagon holds spiritual significance. Some view it as a symbol of spiritual development, the balance between body, mind, and spirit, or as a symbol of the universe’s harmony and perfection. Because of the way the hexagon can rotate and remain interconnected, it can also symbolize transformation and continuous movement.
The colors that dance across the surface of the ceramics are like a miracle from nature itself. Red-orange hues, deep as the sunset over the river, blend with turquoise glaze that reflects the calm flow of the river. These colors carry a unique symbolic meaning. Red symbolizes the earth, life, and the passion that drove the ancient inhabitants to leave these drawings behind, while turquoise reminds us of the power of water and the connection to nature.
Timeless Roots is more than just an artwork; it is a bridge that connects the past and the present, a reminder that we are all part of a larger story. Through this unique ceramic treasure, viewers can feel a connection to those who lived before us and to the landscape that has shaped the soul of Fredrikstad over centuries."