SAMSUNG CSC
The impact of digitisation on contemporary culture has provided inspiration for the work of Rotterdam-based artist Ton Kalishoek, who has used MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME (MTX) for his captivating designs.
“From a creative point of view, I am particularly interested in the effect that digitisation has on our language, our way of communicating and our visual language,” says Ton. “Think of the icons, pictograms, logos and shortcuts on your laptop, tablet or smartphone. Elements of these inspiration sources and trends I incorporate in my visual work. I use stylised figures and make strong statements,” he said.
The result of his work is a series of outdoor sculptures and objects that most definitely catch the imagination of audiences. Following three design themes: people, animals and plants, Ton’s designs are strikingly elegant and thought-provoking. What is more, the observer would never guess that they are made from timber. But, given the design, fixing and machining flexibility afforded by MTX, the material was perfectly suited to the design projects.
By making use of timber for the sculptures, the artist was able to create digitally-inspired work with the use of natural products – cleverly marrying the two worlds.
“I prefer to use state-of-the art materials, so MTX works really well,” says Ton. “It’s durable and is perfect for coating with the paint or metal I finish my sculptures with.”
Instead of traditional sculpture materials, such as bronze or stone, the artist prefers to make use of materials from the building, furniture and automotive industry. Given their use in outdoor decoration, the exterior sculptures benefit from the unique characteristics of MTX.
“It’s an excellent material for my garden sculptures,” Ton continues. “It’s very stable and durable and does not expand or shrink in external wet environments.”
Peter Clifton, Product Manager for MTX, commented: “The uses of this product never cease to amaze me. The features and benefits of the panel lend themselves brilliantly to projects like this, combining durability and stability with the design freedom of traditional MDF.
“With a 50 year above ground guarantee and effective resistance to fungal decay, MTX exhibits real strength in outdoor weather conditions and offers true versatility for designers and craftsmen.”
