In the latest edition of NEWS 08, you can immerse yourself in an artful conversation of OTIIMA with Artworks, trying to understand the peculiar relationship between art and the metal industry. “The Industrial Revolution transformed society starting in the 18th Century, with the invention of machines and the large-scale migration to large cities for factory work,” affirms Jose Pedro Croft, one of the collaborative artists at Artworks.
Artworks: Dancing to the sound of the machines
“The Industrial Revolution- continues to explain Jose Pedro Croft – was not just about mass production, it also impacted the way people and artists see and produce art. The artwork complex dances to the sound of the machines’ noise – the energetic industrial music. Restlessness and enthusiasm are inherent to the space and its occupants. For José Pedro Croft, this disruptive environment is a challenge, but one that proves rewarding: “I am used to working in a factory environment therefore, I know that the artist creates a rupture in the factory work process; even if he only uses a machine for a short time, he is breaking a minute schedule. Therefore, it requires some flexibility on the part of both the company and the workers to accept this. It is a sign of great generosity; I always felt that my presence in the factory was an added value. When, in fact, it’s something very beneficial for me.”
Artworks: Dancing to the sound of the machines
Perhaps his most famous principle, “Less is more,” summarizes Mies’ approach to design: stripping away the unnecessary to reveal the essential. His buildings are characterized by clean lines, open floor plans, and an absence of ornamentation. This philosophy encourages architects to prioritize spatial clarity and material integrity, resulting in modern and enduring structures.
© Tomeu Canyellas
1. Heydar Aliyev Center – Zaha Hadid
1. Heydar Aliyev Center – Zaha Hadid
Based on the unanimously recognized generosity and ambition, ArtWorks has carved out its space: it is not and does not want to be a mere service provider entity; it designs its programs based on problems identified in day-to-day factory life and supports emerging artistic creation both nationally and internationally.
