Björk Haraldsdóttir
Álfadans - set of three #2 , 2021
Black stoneware and black slip, white stoneware and white slip
Álfadans #2.1 54 x 16 x 11 cm
Álfadans #2.2 44 x 16 x 11 cm
Álfadans #2.3 31 x 14 x 9 cm
Álfadans #2.2 44 x 16 x 11 cm
Álfadans #2.3 31 x 14 x 9 cm
Series: Álfadans
Artist's stamp on the base
CF0337
Copyright The Artist
Photo: Cavaliero Finn
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Björk Haraldsdóttir's latest works are conceived as groupings of complementary shapes, patterns and tones. Working in sets reveals a new dynamic; a conversation between pieces with individual personalities allows a...
Björk Haraldsdóttir's latest works are conceived as groupings of complementary
shapes, patterns and tones. Working in sets reveals a new dynamic; a
conversation between pieces with individual personalities allows a rhythmic
interplay to develop. This is a direction the artist is finding increasingly intriguing
to travel down.
The sets also explore new tonal directions. Single colour
vessels with pattern revealed only by the juxtaposition of slip clay and
stoneware clay appear quite serene. Solid whites and solid blacks flatten the
aesthetic and allow scribed patterns to characterise the pieces in way that is
very different from their ‘sister’ pieces patterned with contrasting tones. These
works are an evolution but hold a strong memory of their multi-tone antecedents.
Álfadans #2 is a set of three ceramic sculptures by Björk Haraldsdóttir which are inspired by Icelandic folklore and mythological tales. Huldufólk (hidden folk) are supernatural beings referred to as Álfar or
Elves, although they are nothing like the image the word elf might
conjure in Britain. Álfar are tall, strong and handsome people of
another world, who sometimes appear at midnigth and especially on New
Years Eve. They are often feared by humans and dissapearences of people
and animals were commonly blamed on Álfar. The garments worn by
Álfar were believed to be elaborate and the females, Álfkona, were
believed to wear long dresses adorned with rich pattern. They would host
dances on New Years Eve and if a human was exposed to them they would
be invited to dance, but were seldom seen again in this world after
taking part in Álfadans.