Description
Artist/Maker: Vasilios Roumeliotis (b. 1977) / Roumelight
Object/Materials and Techniques: Engraved Metal Canvas
Date: Created in 2017
Dimensions: H. 90 cm. x D. 4 cm. x W. 60 cm.
Colours: White Canvas, Red Light
Art style: Light art / Luminism / Lighting sculpture
Current Location: Artist’s collection, Athens
Curator’s note: ‘The Immortal Olympian Ideals Interpreted in Modern Aesthetics.’
Minimal appearance with strong presence defines this exceptional lighting art piece.
With a nod to Olympic Games of ancient era, and the epitomes they represent, The Olympian lighting piece from the Roumelight lighting collection exemplifies modernity through timeless simplicity and reflection of the ancient Hellenic effortless class.
Drawing inspiration by the prominent discobolus motif of the ancient Hellenic sculpture and iconography, the graceful outlines of a corpus in potential motion reflect the earnest and conscientious action exerted by the portrayed discus thrower, and the use of physical energy placed in his strain. It is the moment of stasis just before the release.
The laurel leaf wreath on his head echoes the era evoked by the ancient athletic competitions. It highlights the infinity of the ancient Hellenic honorary symbol of praise for triumph and achievement, awarded mainly to victors in athletic games, including the ancient Olympics for which it was made of wild olive tree, and was known as kotinos. Even in modern times, the laurel leaf wreath is widely known, and still remains a symbol of glory and honour.
The chosen red lighting colour further incarnates the overall eternal Olympian spirit, making the design contour of the figure form rather sensory, unfolding synchronously an overall evocative body tension.
The work has a completely different look when is turned off in a bright room than lit in a dark place or in dim light. When lit, the illuminated athlete plays a special spiritual role in crossing eras. He imbues the dark space with light and soul by unfolding glorious moments from the past, and allowing them to thrive.
In the case of The Olympian lighting piece, the Olympian ethics, as introduced by the Ancient Hellenes with emphasis on the importance of fair play, good sportsmanship and civility, become an inspirational point of reference for contemporary art creation against any overwhelming passage of time.
Nothing can ever compare to ancient archetypes when embodied in a respectful way within modern tendencies, as masterfully delivered by Roumelight lighting brand.
Installation notes:
- The Olympian may be customized, upon request, in different colours and sizes.
- Technical support for assembling or hanging the lighting work is recommended.
- Instructions by the artist may be provided.
