Star crystals (Sterkristallen)

About this artwork.

Star Crystals is an artwork on a glass wall of the Vensterschool in Hoogkerk. This complex accommodates a large number of public-oriented institutions for various age groups, including a nursery and a society for the elderly. It was the users of this multifunctional building – both young and old, small and large – who inspired Astrid Voss to create the artwork Star Crystals. In her search for a form in which she could combine all ages, she decided on the use of crystals. “They are shapes that resemble stars as well as snow crystals. Snow crystals are young and vanish and are contrasted with stars as old, eternal celestial bodies,” says the artist.

The pattern of the star crystals was designed on the computer and then sandblasted in different gradations on the glass, creating variations in transparency: the longer the sandblasting, the “whiter” the glass. The star crystals are arranged on the glass wall in a diagonally ascending line and are displayed in varying sizes and perspectives. This creates dynamics in the work: the star crystals seem to move across the glass.

The CBK Groningen, in collaboration with the Vensterschool and the architect of the building (Bureau Gunnar Daan), formulated the assignment, which also included an educational component. Astrid Voss gave several lessons in which the pupils were introduced to the form, material and technique of Star Crystals, and then set to work themselves.

Facts & Figures.

• Design
  Astrid Voss

• District
  Hoogkerk

• Year of creation
  2001

• Art type
  Art in / on a building, Glass artwork

• Material
  Glass

• Dimensions
  h 2,50 x b 8,00 m