SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: CARSTEN HOLLER

As creatives, we find it hard to forget the designers before us. There are artists out there who have built environments that are cemented into our brains and remain there for inspiration in future designs. This week Knstrct.com is spotlighting Belgian artist, Carsten Holler. Over the last three decades Holler’s work has reached international fame, being curated and featured in museums all over the world.

It is unexpected to learn that Holler holds doctorate in biology, specializing in the area of insect communication strategies. His in depth research in insects may be a direct link to his obsession with human interaction. In Höller’s work he thrives to create situations which question familiar forms of perception and allow exhibition visitors to experiment on themselves.

Throughout his history as an artist, Holler often invites the public’s active participation in his exhibitions. In their form, Höller’s works are occasionally reminiscent of scientific laboratory arrangements, allowing the viewer to become the subject of an experiment. It is apparent that Carsten uses his training as a scientist in his work as an artist.

The Snow Show, 2006
Sestriere-Turin -I (with Williams Tsien)

Hippopotamus
2007 pink bi-resin, horn, blue glass eyes

Amusement Park (Baja), 2006
Re-engineered amusement park rides

Lignano Ski Lab, 2007

Test Site, 2006.
Installation view ‘Unilever Series : Carsten Höller’, Turbine Hall, Tate Modern, London 2006.