technical: Retain is a uniform project for those that give tours through the art park of the Wanås Foundation in Sweden. As a group gathers in the Konsthallen for a tour to begin, the guide performatively puts on this work apron taken from a nearby hook, stoically hanging from wooden hangars. Utilitarian as well as being aesthetic, the guide loads up the various pockets with needed materials (keys, cell phone, notebook, catalogues, umbrella…). The design is based on a medieval tabard and the contemporary Swedish work pant that has extensive outer pockets.
from The Land Use Project
Retain
2006
Peat spun with wool, linen, thread.
Made for curators at
the Wanås Foundation in Sweden.
dimensions variable.
content: Peat as a material choice is found on this Wanås estate. Peat fiber from raised bogs in northern climates, is believed to have protective and healing qualities. Centuries of stored growth forces from an originally healthy natural world are thought to be preserved in the peat. Peat fiber fabrics are thought to help ward off the harmful effects of our environment and aid in recuperation from illness. The brown humus substances in peat provide a breathable warmth different from wool. Doctors have prescribed peat products for nervousness, restlessness, insomnia, headaches, cancer and for general convalescence.
Retain in use
Retain hung in the Konsthallen