The word “ballast,” which is the origin of the Japanese word barasu (meaning crushed stone), originally referred to a weight used to stabilize ships. Today, it’s also used to secure railroad ties and form solid foundations for structures.
In contrast, nonwoven fabric is a fragile, unstable and tears easily.
Ballast gains its strength through density and accumulation, while nonwoven fabric is light and ephemeral.
In this work, I wrapped each stone individually in nonwoven fabric—moving my hands with care, as if I aimed to separate and isolate them.
PROFILE
Nagata Ayami [Japan]
My artworks are inspired from familiar industrial materials and nonchalant actions people take in everyday life. Through the countless repetitions of simple movements in the creation process, I intend to reframe sceneries of casual days and give audience cues to rethink on the values of materials.
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