The Spanish artist creates original, reflective artistic experiences with strong formal approaches, such as this spectacular spherical sculpture inspired by Ancient Egyptian culture.
In the heart of the pyramids of Giza emerges the Orb, designed by the Madrid studio of the artist SpY. This artwork is part of the group exhibition “Forever Is Now II,” organized by Art D’Égypte / Culturvator, in collaboration with UNESCO and the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, exploring themes of the past in the present to dream about the future of humanity. In his large-scale installations, SpY always seeks to understand history, environment, and culture. The Orb draws from the monumental aesthetic and cultural remains of the Ancient Egyptian Empire and references mathematical elements in its proportions, like the number Pi.
The story goes that it is hidden in the geometry of the pyramids, dividing the base of its perimeter (the sum of its four sides) by twice its height. Its spherical shape alludes to an invisible part of the result. SpY materializes here this sphere, immersed in the necropolis of Giza.
Sculpture as language
The artistic concept thus stems from the understanding of this universal number: how it is linked to geometric calculations (height of the pyramid, perimeter, length of the spherical circumference), but also to sculpture.
The second approach to the Orb draws on the immaterial and spiritual contributions of Egyptian civilization. In history, mirrors, therefore material elements, established a link between the two worlds, referring to the light of the sun and the notions of creation and rebirth. The surface of this sculptural sphere reflects both the surrounding panorama (pyramids, sky, desert) and the visitors-spectators, thanks to all the circular mirrors, creating a living link and a multiple fragmented reflection.
SpY’s project thus highlights the Egyptian heritage and transcends time, while fulfilling its objective of evolving “urban art into public art.”
Nathalie Dassa