"Commissioned by RIBBON International, the major and large-scale artwork remains on-site between September 14th and November 30th, 2025. The building, renovated in 2025 by ФОРМА and RIBBON International and home to the Pavilion of Culture, becomes the temporary platform for the artist's response to the ongoing war in Ukraine. It consists of three mathematically precise spheres wrapped in camouflage uniforms, which he handpainted in white with his team."
"Ai Weiwei's installation in Ukraine references Leonardo da Vinci's De Divina Proportione. The mathematical precision of the spheres represents rational order and Renaissance humanism, while the camouflage clothing interprets the ongoing conflict outside of the pavilion. The artist suggests cognitive dissonance: while the spheres stand for harmony, precision, and logical systems of humans, the painted uniforms bring forth the symbols of war and actual conflict taking place in the country."
Ai Weiwei installed Three Perfectly Proportioned Spheres and Camouflage Uniforms Painted White in Kyiv's Pavilion 13, on view from September 14th to November 30th, 2025. Commissioned by RIBBON International and housed in a building renovated in 2025 by ФОРМА and RIBBON International, the work comprises three mathematically exact spheres wrapped in camouflage uniforms handpainted white. The installation references Leonardo da Vinci's De Divina Proportione, using precision to signify rational order and Renaissance humanism while the painted camouflage evokes the active war outside. The juxtaposition creates cognitive dissonance between harmony and symbols of conflict. Research trips across Ukraine informed the textile-based sculpture through accounts from frontline soldiers, civilians, and medical professionals, and the exhibition during active conflict involved notable logistical and security challenges.
Read at designboom | architecture & design magazine
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