EPOCH

Louise Zanartu & Louis Boudart
2024
Oxidized welded metal, raw sheep’s wool, natural kapok fiber
Size: Various sizes

Photo: Ana de Paula


The installation seeks to provoke conversations about the coexistence of traditional practices with modern lifestyles. It juxtaposes rustic wool with industrial metal to highlight the tension between the past and present, urging society to reconsider the value of natural resources and traditions. Ultimately, the project aims to engage the public and encourage deeper discussions on preserving cultural and ecological legacies.




EPOCH ONE 

Size:
350 x 140 x 170 cm

Photo: Ana de Paula


This monumental sculpture towers over the viewer, allowing passage underneath it. It rests on three metal oxidized legs, which contrast with the mass of raw wool resting on its top. When pushed, it sways lightly, giving the illusion of movement, as if the creature was living and walking among us. 




EPOCH TWO

Size:
85 x 65 x 115 cm

Photo: Ana de Paula
Photo: Manel Cano Merino


Made from natural kapok fiber and oxidized metal, this member of the herd offers the possibility to sit and lounge on it. Giving a tactile experience to the audience and the feeling of riding one of our creatures. 




EPOCH THREE

Size:
180 x 90 x 90 cm  

Photo: Manel Cano Merino


This long member of our herd rises to eye level, offering a tactile and olfactive experience. 




EPOCH  FOUR

Size:
25 x 15 x 15 cm

Photo: Manel Cano Merino


This minuscule creature contrasts greatly with EPOCH ONE through size, material, and build. It seems like it could be the baby of the herd. A joyous living being, small but powerful.




Process: Pictures taken by Louis and Louise 

We went to the mountains of Collserola in Catalonia to meet José, a local sheep herder, and his 400 sheep. He gave us 30kilos of raw, natural wool which was going to be discarded because our current consumer society has no use for it. 
We learned about sheep herding and its cultural heritage which is being lost. To construct the large metal structures that carry the wool, we learned how to weld, cut, and oxidize metal.