In the realm of contemporary art, where artists push boundaries and challenge perceptions, Julian Charrière stands out as a visionary. His latest exhibition, 'Hard Core', currently on display at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart, Tasmania, is a profound exploration of our relationship with the Earth and the deep time that shapes our existence. This article delves into Charrière's work, offering a unique perspective on how he navigates the intersection of planetary forces and human activity, and the profound implications of his artistic practice.
A Descent into Deep Time
Charrière's exhibition is a journey through geological time, inviting viewers to confront the vastness of Earth's history and the fleeting nature of human existence. By embedding his sculptures and installations within the sandstone-carved architecture of MONA, he creates an immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional art spaces. The artist's research across volcanoes, glaciers, oceans, and remote territories forms the foundation of this exploration, revealing the intricate entanglement of natural forces and human intervention.
One of the most captivating works, 'Breathe' (2026), is a permanent installation that releases oxygen molecules trapped within banded iron formations since the Great Oxidation Event, approximately 2.4 billion years ago. This piece collapses geological distance into direct experience, making deep history tangible and immediate. It is a powerful reminder of the ancient air we breathe and the profound connection between humanity and the planet's past.
Glacial Journeys and Human Impact
Another significant installation, 'Not All Who Wander Are Lost' (2026), centers on glacial erratics—boulders carried across continents by ancient ice sheets. These stones, resting atop fractured drill cores repaired with brass, aluminium, and stainless steel, serve as a poignant commentary on humanity's growing impact on the Earth. Charrière's work here draws attention to the slow geological movement alongside industrial extraction, questioning ideas of mastery over nature and highlighting the unintended consequences of human activity.
The Language of Volcanoes
Volcanic matter recurs throughout the exhibition, with 'Thickens, Pools, Flows, Rushes, Slows' (2020) being a standout piece. Charrière works with obsidian, the dark volcanic glass born from rapidly cooled lava, to evoke both geological violence and ancient ritual practices. The reflective sculptures serve as a mirror to the past, reflecting on the role of obsidian in shaping human culture and the enduring impact of volcanic activity on our planet.
A Comprehensive Survey
Curated by Jarrod Rawlins and Olivier Varenne, 'Hard Core' offers the most comprehensive survey of Charrière's practice to date. Rocks, minerals, glaciers, and atmosphere emerge not as passive scenery but as active agents within human history. This exhibition challenges viewers to reconsider their relationship with the natural world and the profound implications of our actions on the planet.
Personal Interpretation and Commentary
In my opinion, Charrière's work is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of all life on Earth. His use of deep time as a narrative device forces viewers to confront the vastness of our planet's history and the fleeting nature of human existence. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Charrière seamlessly blends science, mythology, environmental history, and material culture to create a compelling narrative. This exhibition is a call to action, urging viewers to reflect on their role in shaping the future of our planet and the legacy we leave behind.
From my perspective, 'Hard Core' is not just an art exhibition; it is a profound exploration of our relationship with the Earth and the deep time that shapes our existence. Charrière's work challenges us to reconsider our place in the natural world and the profound implications of our actions. This exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in art, science, and the future of our planet.
