What We See of Things is the Things

CARBON 12 is proud to present Edgar Orlaineta’s first solo exhibition with the gallery, "What We See of Things is the Things."

This compelling body of work delves into philosophical explorations of perception, essence, and the transformation of objects. Inspired by Fernando Pessoa’s Poemas de Alberto Caeiro (1911–1912), Orlaineta reflects on the nature of "thingness," examining how objects transcend functionality and context to exist in their purest form. His work challenges traditional ideas of art by questioning when and how an object becomes a "thing" and how these "things" interact with their surroundings.

Orlaineta’s practice is deeply rooted in materiality and transformation. His organic and geometric forms engage with the spaces they occupy, creating a dialogue between the artist, his materials, and the environment. This process-oriented approach allows Orlaineta to witness the metamorphosis of matter as he manipulates it, exploring how raw materials evolve into something distinct yet stripped of preconceived function. Environment plays a vital role, influencing both the process and the transformative effects of the work.

Drawing on Aristotle’s ideas of techne (craft) and poiein (creation), Orlaineta seeks to go beyond imitation. While art has often been defined as a realization of truth in physical form, his focus is on the novel and original qualities that emerge through the crafting process. Painting from images rather than physical objects, his works resonate with the ceramics and paintings of Bernard Leach, Otto & Gertrud Natzler, and Léon Spilliaert, emphasizing seeing over analyzing and reducing objects to their visual presence.

The artist’s fascination with "thingness" is tied to childhood memories, including vivid recollections of his grandmother’s home, where hanging images lingered as simple presences imprinted on his mind. These memories underscore the paradox of his technical processes: though stripped of function, his works maintain a profound visual and material presence that invites reflection and interpretation.

Through "What We See of Things is the Things," Edgar Orlaineta invites viewers to engage with objects not as tools or symbols, but as pure, unadulterated things. By challenging the preconceived notions of art and objecthood, he offers a space for contemplation on the essence of creation, perception, and material transformation.