2009, manufactured by Solidity Ltd., England, white acrylic stone (Corian), mirror, hand-signed: PM Wolfson/ 2009, height 133 cm, width 133 cm, depth 35 cm. (DRAX)

No. 2 from the edition of eight. With certificate of authenticity.

“We don’t know Why. Only What. Why is the ultimate question we need to answer? Found in virtually every form of nature, and directly relating to the Golden Proportion, the spiral shape references the balance between harmony and discord. The form of “Why/WhyNot” derived from the letter Q, which in itself is a symbol or could be referred to as the challenging letter in the alphabet. It represents a letter (refers to a letter) as well as the actual spiral shape itself, which refers to infinity. ‘Why’ investigating rhythms and lines of movement, and, as well, ideas of the concrete poetry manifesto of ‘seeing the word in itself’. Vacillating between sculpture and function, there is a gesture of motion, as well as a suggested “tension of Thing-Words in Space-Time” (Augusto de Campos). The dynamics of light and shadow define the piece as much as the material itself. The mirror enforces the optical illusion of the connection between physicality and unreality. Creating a mystery and a ‘thru the looking glass’ effect. Questioning becomes a part of the piece.” (Ph. M. Wolfson)

Philip Michael Wolfson’s designs are informed by the early experiments of the Russian and Italian modernists. His design principles are based on the dynamism resulting from breaks and fragmentations. He layers and manipulates his materials until achieving flowing forms. Shadow and reflections are an integral part of their charm. Wolfson uses precious and exquisite materials that lend his objects a dynamic elegance.

“The necessary and vital element of design is to provide stimulation in the pursuit of simple daily activities. Creativity insists that we challenge certain criteria.” (Ph. M. Wolfson)

Exhibited:
Between Lines, Marcus Tremonto/Philip Michael Wolfson, Galerie Franziska Kessler, Zurich 2008

Lit.:
Once upon a chair. Design beyond the icon, Gestalten Verlag, 2009, p. 54