FRAGILE
IN CONVERSATION WITH MICHAEL MATIU
FB: The alpine cryosphere serves as a critical source of fresh water in mountain regions and their surrounding areas. Can you elaborate on the role of snow in this vital process, and what potential changes might we anticipate in light of recent environmental developments?
MM: Snow acts fundamentally as a natural reservoir within the alpine cryosphere, essential for water storage throughout the winter. As we observe snowfall during the colder months, it accumulates, effectively capturing and storing water. With the arrival of spring and summer, this snow begins to melt, releasing the stored water into rivers, which subsequently transport it to valleys and peripheral regions. This seasonal accumulation and subsequent melting of snow are crucial for maintaining river flow rates and ensuring water availability during warmer months.
The significance of snow and glacier mass in this context cannot be overstated, as they are key determinants of the regional water balance. Changes in precipitation patterns, particularly a shift towards more rain and less snowfall in winter, pose challenges to this natural storage system. Such shifts result in altered river runoff patterns and impact water availability throughout the year, leading to increased water presence in winter due to more rain, but a reduction in the crucial summer months when snowmelt traditionally replenishes water sources. Furthermore, with climate change predictions indicating a reduction in summer precipitation in the Alps, we may face intensified drought conditions.
MOMENTO MORI
2021
Crafted from subtraction, the piece titled “Fragile” manifests through a meticulous process where a white, short-tufted carpet is sculpted from another using only a scoring knife. This method not only defines its form but also infuses it with profound symbolism, echoing the ephemeral and delicate nature of snow itself. The chosen medium, “Fragile,” subtly references the vulnerability of the Alpine landscapes, underscoring a thematic resonance with the exhibit’s deeper environmental commentary.
Comprising three distinct segments, this object mirrors the snow blanket of a selected location. The carpet’s warm texture contradicts the conventional perception of snow’s cold and rigid touch. This juxtaposition not only enhances the sensory experience but also amplifies the conceptual underpinnings of the work, suggesting a nuanced contemplation of snow’s physical characteristics.
Material: 100% Recycled Polyester – Color: Pristine White- Dimensions: Measuring an expansive 2000×1400 mm
PROCESS
During my research, I came across the term “snow carpet,” which refers to freshly fallen snow acting as a seamless cover over the ground. This snow layer is not only aesthetically pleasing but also changes in function and significance based on its thickness and texture.
The nature of the carpet effectively symbolizes the concept of impermanence. The persistence of snow cover is diminishing, even in higher mountainous areas, transitioning from a uniform blanket to a more fragmented and patchy layer.
To capture the shifting nature of snow cover, I used images of existing snow landscapes as templates for the carpet’s design. Finding a manufacturing technique flexible enough to accommodate such a bespoke design was essential. Tufting emerged as the ideal method, allowing for the creation of specific shapes directly or the option to shape a pre-tufted base later.
In my quest to understand this process better, I discovered Kramis, a Swiss company specializing in handmade rugs, based in Altbüron, in the Canton of Bern. Eager to gain deeper insights, I visited Switzerland to observe their craftsmanship firsthand. This visit provided valuable knowledge for the project’s later stages, enhancing my understanding of the tufting process and its potential for realizing my vision.
In the quest to select the perfect satellite image, numerous stencils were crafted and evaluated. The chosen image captures a segment of the Putz-Geißler Nature Park, located at the precise coordinates of 46°35’53.7″N 11°48’35.6″E. This satellite imagery was then imported into Procreate, where the snow cover was meticulously outlined in detail. The resulting line art was printed across four DIN A0 sheets, tailored to fit the dimensions of the rectangular carpet from which the shape would be carved. The dimensions of the carpet purchased for this purpose measured 2300x1600mm.
A paper template was carefully cut out, pinned to the back of the carpet for stability, and then traced over with a permanent marker before being cut with a scoring knife. Navigating the tight curves and corners posed a significant challenge. After just over five hours of diligent work, all parts of the design were successfully cut out, bringing the intricate vision to life.
