XOXO
A bullet changes its meaning, when exhibited in a different setting. The connotation
of Sabine Wiedenhofer’s emptied cartridges shifted to a different semantic level, as the artist transforms aggressive objects into humorous wall sculptures, sending Hugs & Kisses to the viewer.
Even though the artist takes a clear position on the absurdity of violence, she addresses a number of issues without imposing any answers or opinions but rather invites us to rethink and to (re)act. By giving a new meaning to the objects, she is using the aesthetics of violence in a poetic way to get her message across. The artist creates beautiful objects, pointing out the positive qualities in everything, even when it is originally something dangerous.
For her, the bullets are like words ready to be redefined, they change their meaning when put into a different context. She strips them of their original purpose and transforms them into means of communication. Exploring the sculptural potential of familiar shapes, Wiedenhofer invites the viewer to share a new and different outlook on reality. She does not judge or criticize. Her work is not only an accusation of violence, it is a call for peace and reconciliation. For Sabine Wiedenhofer, life always finds a way of renewing itself and positivity can shine through.
