Alkinois is pleased to present «FITZCARRALDO,» the new solo installation by Greek artist Theo Michael, with the support of NEON. Inspired by Werner Herzog’s cinematic masterpiece, this in situ intervention challenges traditional art hierarchies and presentation methods within a dedicated exhibition space. Over the past weeks, since his return to Greece, Theo Michael has meticulously explored the quarries around Mount Pentelis, the historic origin of the Parthenon’s marble, to source massive rocks for this installation. By reflecting on the ancient techniques of extracting and transp orting marble, Michael performs an act where not only the stones themselves become the primary artwork, abut also the process of their extraction and transportation, relegating the accompanying sculptures to a secondary role. This performative gesture disrupts conventional art display, inviting viewers to rethink the relationship between art and space.
The installation, which occupies a significant portion of the exhibition area, comprises large marble rocks arranged to create a sculptural volume that balances meticulous assembly with the aesthetics of ruin. This work blurs the lines between historical and ahistorical, indoor land art, and the reflection on ancient skills and lost technologies.
«FITZCARRALDO» extends beyond mere sculpture to engage with architecture, social interaction, and meditation. The stones form a space within a space, evoking archaeological sites and fostering a unique landscape for social interaction throughout the exhibition. These boulders serve as metaphorical and practical anchors, prompting viewers to reimagine norms and traditional concepts of living spaces.
On the surrounding walls and spread around on the floor, Michael presents sculptures that explore archetypal forms with ancient Greek references and futuristic aspects. These pieces, depicting animals, undefined creatures and abstract stelae, reinforce the timeless nature of the installation’s themes.
«FITZCARRALDO» is curated by Alix Janta-Polczynski in collaboration with Romain Bitton. The show will be on display at Alkinois Space all throughout the summer, inviting visitors to engage with this unique blend of archaeology and science fiction, histo ry and modernity, and to experience a redefined approach to art and social space approach to art and social space.