The term, Shape of the Universe refers to the local and global geometry of the universe and is the title for this project and series of works exploring the process of deconstructing and reconstructing paintings and drawings into sculptural forms. A starting point has been to use the simple geometry of the childhood game, the origami fortuneteller, which can be considered to be symbolic of magical or superstitious thinking.

Here geometry is used as a sort of map for discovering new and unexpected forms. In subverting geometry’s ‘absolute’ nature, programmed perceptions and socially conditioned ideas and thinking about what is rational, correct and true are challenged. It is intended that these painting-sculptures and drawings inhabit the space in unusual ways, allowing for both playfulness and concept-creation for the viewer, who is encouraged to cross reference between the component parts.

Consisting of parts, often one hosting another or once having hosted one and other, a duality is sometimes present, be it in the form of two elements, one permanent and one temporal or one fixed and one that is movable, for example. These hybrid pieces are intended to be folded up and taken away to be reconfigured differently at a later time. The idea of impermanence is important here but also the visible traces of a performative element in the installation process as the work is unfolded like maps, a dressmaker’s pattern or configured like DIY flatpack furniture gone wrong. These works are site specific and are completed with some of the work, such as the wall painting or charcoal shavings on the floor, being completed in the space.