Øystein Aasan
Honky Tonk
July 23 - September 19, 2010

The Norwegian artist Øystein Aasan is developing an expansive sculpture entitled "Honky Tonk" for the Kunstverein Arnsberg. Like other works by Aasan, it leads us to specific situations in which the movement of the viewer leads to the unveiling and exploration of the work. The sculpture follows the architecture of the Kunstverein by extending strictly but calmly through two rooms to activate the role and position of the viewer. 

Honky Tonk is a fast kind of jazz that emphasizes rhythm instead of melody. The sculpture dances with the spaces and the light, inviting the viewer to engage with its elegant yet dangerous forms. "Honky Tonk" is a site-specific sculpture with sharp edges and a soft movement, massive presence and sensitive lightness, where the touch of form manifests itself as passion. 

Øystein Aasan has also produced a second installation for the Kunstverein's office space, which is intended to be permanent but will change over time. This functional sculpture has been designed for everyday use by the Kunstverein's staff and guests. Together with "Honky Tonk", it reflects a variety of imaginary and practical possibilities for movement in space. 

Øystein Aasan was born in 1977 in Kristiansand, Norway, and has lived in Berlin since 2002. "Honky Tonk" is his first institutional solo exhibition in Germany. His first major museum show will follow in 2011 at the Museum Kunst Sørlandets in Norway.