Origins
Copper is found in the free metallic state in nature. The Roman supply of copper came almost entirely from Cyprus. It was known as aes Cyprium, “metal of Cyprus,” shortened to cyprium and later corrupted to cuprum.
In the film the artist/protagonist enacts a series of actions with a sheet of pure copper she discovers while swimming in the sea. Travelling around the Island of Cyprus, historically the “home” of Copper, the sheet comes to represent a symbol of homecoming or return as she uses its pliability to mould it around rocks, trees and landmarks around the landscape. Each action, pressing and moulding takes on a ritualistic significance, sometimes different placements are tried out in the same location, each one is an attempt to re-home the pure metal. In some locations the copper looks distinct and alien, in others it is almost camouflaged with the surrounding environment. We are left unsure as to whether the protagonist is leading or being led by the copper to rediscover her home.
Punctuated throughout the film are clips of the artist working in her Cyprus studio, exploring the copper’s sculptural potential by cutting and re-shaping it. These actions also recall the origins of copper as one of the earliest metals used for making ornaments and jewellery by beating and burnishing it with basic tools. The resulting form also implies that a process of mapping or rediscovery has taken place.
In the film the artist/protagonist enacts a series of actions with a sheet of pure copper she discovers while swimming in the sea. Travelling around the Island of Cyprus, historically the “home” of Copper, the sheet comes to represent a symbol of homecoming or return as she uses its pliability to mould it around rocks, trees and landmarks around the landscape. Each action, pressing and moulding takes on a ritualistic significance, sometimes different placements are tried out in the same location, each one is an attempt to re-home the pure metal. In some locations the copper looks distinct and alien, in others it is almost camouflaged with the surrounding environment. We are left unsure as to whether the protagonist is leading or being led by the copper to rediscover her home.
Punctuated throughout the film are clips of the artist working in her Cyprus studio, exploring the copper’s sculptural potential by cutting and re-shaping it. These actions also recall the origins of copper as one of the earliest metals used for making ornaments and jewellery by beating and burnishing it with basic tools. The resulting form also implies that a process of mapping or rediscovery has taken place.
Origins
2021
Duration: 21:31
2021
Duration: 21:31