Hrānrad

Reading genesis mythologies from both Norse and Christian culture, artist Gaia Fugazza finds herself reflecting on how archetypes of male-female relationships and companionship are often based on violence and inequality. A series of fragmented ceramics originates from these read­ings: symbols, talismans or tectonic plates carrying mysterious imagery. The weather, cosmic energies and animals are equal protagonists in each piece. Some of Fugazza’s bas-reliefs are carved in tablets or brown earthenware clay that maintains a wet look after firing, bearing a reminder of ancient inscriptions in clay. Some others are made in unglazed black stoneware, reminiscent of volcanic rocks. Together, the fragments invite a re-mixing of history and the creation of new assemblages. Hranrād, the title of the series, comes from the old English word for the ocean, its literal translation being “whale road”. This road is represented by the gap between the fragmented ceramics, that fluctuates on a large plinth, as questing for new unpromised lands. 

Text by Francesco Urbano Ragazzi for LIAF 2022, Lofoten International Art Festival