OBSERVATIONS: Iron Sculpture
Introduction by Keiko Fukai
RUSU Aki’s iron sculptures are fabricated out of her careful observation of the characteristics of iron as material and how it changes with varying treatments. She tries to capture the different expressions that iron instantly shows during the welding, fusing or cooling processes. In some case, these expressions are the small hardened beads of iron melted by a torch, and in other cases they are large flat sheets of iron that she transforms by shaping. Those distinctive varied expressions of manipulated iron that RUSU has discovered become the forms and textures of her sculptures. Many of her sculptures possess unique differing textures, but she is careful to orchestrate these different textures when conceiving of a finished sculpture. Rusu’s unique sensibility to the raw material and keen observation of what happens during the treatment of it has allowed her to create organic forms which are both intricate and powerful.
RUSU graduated from Tama Art University in Tokyo and currently resides and works in Odawara city in Kanagawa prefecture with her husband.
Observation is very important in the execution of my work because careful observation allows me to confront and understand the materials I use as well as my own inner self as an artist.
I create iron sculptures by welding and fusion cutting the most common techniques for ironwork. However, as I work I try to carefully observe the phenomena of fusion, solidification or deformation in the welding and fusion cutting processes. For example, when the iron sheet is heated and melted by a gas torch, small iron drops fall from the sheet and pile up on the bottom tray, or they can be solidified in water. These are normally considered waste, but I have found that their varied shapes and textures are interesting when applied to other surfaces, as well as for creating forms. While I create the form and texture with those fragments, the material tells me what the next step is, and in this way my forms gradually grow. These ‘conversations’ I have with materials give me new inspirations. This is the way I create the forms of my sculptures.
In the beginning of my career as a metal artist, I was fascinated by the expressive effects that occur on iron by welding and fusion cutting. Then I began experimenting with various techniques in order to create unique and interesting surfaces. Those experiments led me to my current style of execution of my work.
As my work has progressed I realize that when my self-identity is intertwined with the natural properties of iron, new relationships with the material develop, and I can create more innovative textures and forms. It’s almost as if I share some secret of discovery with the material, and that is very exciting for me. It seems like I share some secret discovery with the material and it is a very exciting moment for me.
I’m always asking myself if I have the sensitivity to maintain this relationship with my materials. I realize that I must listen to the inner ‘voice’ of the material, but I must also listen carefully to my own inner voice if I want to really capture the appeal of the material as I have come to understand and appreciate it. This is to me very challenging, and that is why I always put the word “Observation” at my side.