EXHIBITION ESSAY
Siklus
A solo exhibition by Octo Cornelius
6 – 28 April 2024
Exhibition Essay
by Nala Nandana
Siklus, or “cycles”, generally refers to a series of events or phases that repeat regularly, forming a particular pattern or flow. It can be used to describe various natural phenomena, processes, or events that have sequential stages that eventually return to a starting point, such as the journey of water to and from the atmosphere and the Earth's surface, the journey of chemical elements through the environment, the state of economic fluctuations over time, or life itself, a series of stages from birth, reproduction, and death. The concept of siklus reflects the nature of most processes in the universe, where all things tend to experience cyclical patterns of change and recurrence.
Octo Cornelius works with found objects such as metal, wood, stone, and other types of matter that have had previous lives before arriving in Octo’s hands to be transformed into an artwork. Octo’s ideas attempt to provide a narrative for forgotten materials, which offer a starting point for compelling stories and unexpected possibilities. Through stories of the past retold and dreams of the future realised, the found object becomes a symbol of eternity and continued life. A once dead place now resonates with new life, proving that it is possible to rebuild and start again.
Found objects, most of which are materials that previously had some sort of use, seem to be waiting to be brought back to life. In every form, the used material holds traces of long journeys, forgotten stories, and new potential that has not yet been revealed. Through creativity and courage, we can give life to used materials, reawakening hidden meaning.
In using found and discarded objects, Octo not only creates works of art that represent his ideas, but also forms a deep connection with the past. By paying attention to the traces engraved in every detail and structure, Octo forms an aesthetic narrative that engages with the original form of the object in order to formulate a new vision for its transformation into an artwork. The new form that Octo creates, as if extending a previously existing narrative, unites the past, present, and future into one harmonious whole. The works created by Octo can be said to record moments of daily life and create connections across time and space. Thus in each of his works, we can notice similarities and differences from various eras and locations, signs of the artist trying to connect us with the human experiences of others.
The idea of siklus within Octo’s works is an attempt to create a natural balance. This concept is a fragile harmony, where each element depends on the others. The balance that Octo creates is not static, but dynamic, adapting to change and evolution. Nothing is constant in the spinning cycle, except change.
Using a philosophical approach, the rotating siklus is the essence of life itself. From birth to death, from creation to rejuvenation, everything is bound in an unbroken flow. In simple terms, Octo creates a never-ending storyline, an inevitable trace of our existence in this universe. By noticing and appreciating this cycle, we can appreciate the beauty and wonder of life itself.
In this exhibition, Octo sees a reflection of the change, growth and transformation inherent in all aspects of life. From birth to death, we experience a cycle of life that enriches our experience and leaves an indelible mark on this universe.
— NALA NANDANA, April 2024