MFA exhibition: Alternate directions - Jóhan Nordskar

Through a process-driven practice centered around grinding painted wooden blocks on sanding paper, I aim to explore the underlying chaos that shapes existence. A variety of forms, colors, sizes, and repetitions comes together to create a series of two-dimensional works that collectively form the exhibition. Varying the different objects showcases how complexity strengthens the concept and enriches the subject matter.

The repetitive motion of grinding wood and paint into dust and reworking surfaces embodies a tension between creation and destruction. This tension raises questions about the ethical use of materials such as acrylics and industrially manufactured goods. What constitutes a meaningful or justifiable use of finite resources?

The exhibition is an attempt to acknowledge 'truth' and 'meaning' as continuous processes of transformation, and to explore ways of engaging with that ongoing flux. When I engage in the repetitive act of grinding and reworking painted wooden blocks the material itself becomes a medium for reflecting this process, embodying both creation and destruction in its constant reshaping.

My exhibition is a realization of material potential and a reflection on the intricate relationship between effort, materials, and conceptual depth, transforming simple acts into an exploration of the minor and major aspects of existence.

For the duration of the exhibition, I will spend the first hour of each day working on the same piece of sandpaper. Grinding wood against sandpaper has a unique stickiness—a resistance that slowly fades and replaces itself over time. A stickiness that is specific to itself. My hope is that this act will reflect how also the exhibition can be this ongoing flux, an ever changing now.

Gallery KHM2, Bergsgatan 29 (3rd floor), Malmö
Opening Friday 31 January 17:00 – 20:00

31 January - 15 February

Opening hours:
Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 – 16:00
Wednesday through Friday: 12:00 – 18:00

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The Master's programme in Fine Arts (MFA) is a two-year graduate programme which includes presenting a solo exhibition at the Academy's gallery