Liquid Crystal - Freerk Wilbers

The elements in Liquid Crystal are arranged in three concentric circles around a center. Each ring is a fixed increment larger than the previous ring, and the number of strings on each ring increases geometrically. The first ring has 6 strings, the second ring 12, the third ring 18.

In cross section, the elements are arranged in a hexagon, a six-sided polygon. The arrangement of the elements in three dimensions was inspired by the ‘sphere packing’ problem. Solutions to this problem occur in nature, for instance in the internal structure of crystals.

Each element is made from acrylic sheet material. The small prisms contained in its surface reflect and diffract light. Small rainbows float around the room. The elements are then shaped in an oven. A dozen different molds are used, resulting in a variety of curves. The resulting double curved surface produces fluid and delicate reflections, that resemble the way light reflects off ripples and waves in water.

The title Liquid Crystal refers to the crystal-inspired arrangement of the elements, and to the resulting jewel-like form. Liquid, then, refers to the liquid appearance of the ever-changing reflections in the Crystal, and to the under-water effect it produces in its surroundings, in interaction with light. Liquid Crystal is also a pun on the LCD – a liquid crystal display. With digital screens shaping so much of our daily lives, Liquid Crystal is a very analog means to generate a mesmerizing image. An escape into a refreshing, off-screen reality.

Liquid Crystals - Edition 3, 2023
Drape formed acrylic, custom motor and controller
190 x 71 x 71 cm

Liquid Crystals was on view during Art The Hague 2023 (The Hague, NL)

Photography by Jacqueline Fuijckschot

These installations are unique pieces, developed by Freerk Wilbers in collaboration with Root Gallery. If you would like to receive more information about this installation - or the possibilities for commissioned work - don’t hesitate to send us an email: contact@root.gallery.