Hoses and Iron – Tapio Haapala

The exhibition features works that were primarily completed last year. I began making sculptures in 2013 for my exhibition in Tampere, where the theme was the relationship between play and work: how adults can play, and how children, in their play, prepare for the adult world, absorbing role models and so on. The themes have remained similar in this exhibition, and some of the works are the same. On the other hand, the themes have deepened with the working process, although sometimes it feels as though the thoughts drift onto insignificant side paths.

The characteristics of materials are interesting, for example, one material is hard and stiff, while another is softer and more flexible. In the same work, they converse with each other, as do the transparency or opacity of different materials.

Cable ties are an interesting material because of their versatility, and not least because they are used by the authorities as a convenient and inexpensive alternative to handcuffs. They also add an amusing touch of color to the work. This phenomenon is true for almost all the materials I use: they are not just materials, but I always associate them in my mind with other meanings.

Rebar refers to construction, which is one of my great hobbies, as well as the traditional profession of the men in my family. Welding, as a technique, comes from my father, who guided me in taking my first steps in welding.

So, it’s about quite personal and everyday things, but at the same time, universal themes.

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