“The Twelve” is a series consisting of the abstract figures of twelve golden combat police officers, reduced to the shape of the traditional Nevalyashka doll combined with the iconic protective visor of the special forces. Here the materiality plays a decided role. The earthenware sculptures covered with gold luster appear perfectly shiny and resistant at first glance, but on closer inspection, smaller material-related differences become visible. This otherness turns the series of idealized officials into a collection of individuals.

 

The sculptures are carried by a pedestal consisting of three plints. These stand for the legislative, executive and judicial branches and symbolize the society these security organs are at least theoretically representing.

 

Jan Gustav Fiedler

Vienna, April 2020