kostas lambridis kitbashes furniture fragments into complex hybrids

‘reverse fireworks in slow motion’ opens in nyc

Carpenters Workshop Gallery in New York opens ‘Reverse Fireworks in Slow Motion,’ the first solo exhibition in the U.S. by Greek artist Kostas Lambridis. With the introduction of nine new works, the Athens-based artist explores the essence of Earth’s elements, embracing a mono-material approach with a focus especially on metal, wood, mineral, and plastic.

The collection marks a bold departure from the artist’s well-known practice of amalgamating fragmented materials. His practice seems to evolve, as he finds himself drawn deeper into the core of each medium. This shift represents a venture away from the familiar and secure, leading him on an avenue of exploration — a return to basic principles. Lambridis seeks to uncover his blind spots and hone his focus on individual materials, one at a time. He recognized that within the amalgamation of materials, there was an aspect that did not align with his ever-evolving creative vision, inadvertently becoming a constraining factor rather than a path for further growth.

each piece is made up of complex fragments of a single material | images © Matt Harrington

kostas lambridis reveals complexity within single materials

In ‘Reverse Fireworks in Slow Motion,’ Kostas Lambridis treats each elemental material with equal reverence, highlighting their unique significance and creating a harmonious symphony through his craftsmanship. His methodological and intuitive approach takes time, and as he puts it, offers an experience akin to ‘capturing the spectacle of fireworks in reverse slow motion.’ This unique perspective challenges the notion of fireworks as fleeting bursts devoid of lasting impact, inviting visitors to the New York gallery to contemplate the beauty within.

‘There is a structure in the way I work that has become more of a limitation, than an open door,’ explains the artist. ‘With the excuse of this new show, I wanted to face the void. When you look at my previous work, there is a certain level of complexity. I realized if you focus on one material, like wood, eventually you realize there is the same level of complexity within that material.’

sketches, notes, photographs, found objects, and raw materials surround the finished sculptures

intricately crafted ‘fireworks’ at carpenters workshop gallery

Kostas Lambridis’ ‘Reverse Fireworks in Slow Motion’ hopes to subvert the typical perception of fireworks as fleeting and forgotten spectacles. Instead, it reimagines these bursts as meaningful expressions of art which intertwine raw materials and creativity. Lambridis deliberately challenges preconceived notions associated with artworks known as ‘Fireworks,’ which are often linked to hasty assembly and instant gratification. This reverse perspective encourages transient viewers to pause and delve into the works’ intricate mechanics and depth.

Kostas Lambridis invites us into his universe of creativity and process, providing a glimpse into his artistic world through a network of sketches, notes, photographs, found objects, and raw materials that surround his finished sculptures, mirroring the fireworks bursts that inspire them. Lambridis offers a fresh perspective, one that illuminates the beauty in each individual element and the impact that emerges when they unite.

with these nine new works, the artist focuses especially on metal, wood, mineral, and plastic
the collection includes lighting fixtures, tables, chairs, and mirrors with this mono-material approach, the artist explores the essence of Earth’s elements