Conscious Matter

“Conscious Matter” is a large-scale sculptural installation by Danish artist Mille Kalsmose, centered around matter and the mineral iron. Using industrial and archaeological materials like rock, iron cores, and steel bars, the work highlights the inherent beauty of matter. The structure, resembling a multi-storey cell or an inner prison, incorporates iron dust, ore stones, pigments, and her father's blood. It evokes the alchemical process and explores the concept of “Conscious Matter,” where iron serves as a tool for decentering humanity and revealing a reality beyond mere matter.

The installation raises underground materials to the sky, creating space for interconnectedness. Iron, significant in alchemy for self-insight, gathers layers of consciousness. Heavy iron chains and delicate cotton threads wrap the hexagon-shaped structure, creating associations to the threads of human fate, the life cord spun by the Norns in the Nordic mythology.

“Conscious Matter” questions life, death, and our ties in life, indicating the non-linearity of existence. This work exemplifies the blend of conceptual subtlety and tangible materials, suggesting that the conceptual and tangible enrich each other, pointing to a realm beyond visible materiality.

For inquiry contact Martin Asbæk Gallery: liselotte@martinasbaek.com