Material Dialogue

When working with wood, Rens Hein experiences a sense of harmony with the material. ‘Material dialogue’ consists of a series of objects that are formed by close observation of the material, its will, limits, qualities and functions. The works evolved out of the natural features of the material. In ‘Protecting’ an oak tree’s outer layer is turned inside out, safeguarding the bark from the process of lumber making, where it is usually lost. ‘Living’ respects the living nature of wood by displaying an old larch beam on trestles adapted to its twisted shape. In ‘Growing’ thin layers of pine act like an X-ray image that reveals the life path of the tree. And ‘Waving’ reflects on the flexibility of trees.