Du Vasn

Du Vasn

A round, bald moon face smiles cheerfully at the viewer. The head forms the upper part of a sculpture that transitions into a classic vase shape towards the bottom. Small, delicate handles on the sides and a circular opening at the highest point of the head complete the absurd image. It is both a vase and the portrait of a plump person laughing heartily. There are three variations of this vase, which differ in expression and tonality.

The title “Du Vasn” opens up several levels of meaning. The word “Vasn” can be understood as “vase” – an empty vessel that also serves as a playful insult in Viennese parlance. At the same time, it contains the Viennese “vasn” or “vasern”, which means “to eat”. The form of address ‘Du’ is directed directly at the viewer and raises the question: What does this have to do with me?

As humorous as the image may seem, the origin of the work is serious: the artist comments on the decadence of our time. Consumption is the driving force in the economy, society and private life. Targeted marketing awakens desires that, once fulfilled, often leave only emptiness behind. We consume so many resources every year that, theoretically, we would need four Earths to live sustainably. But these facts do not slow down consumption – on the contrary, we overload the Earth in full awareness of the consequences. This insatiable greed is reflected in the overweight vase heads. But they laugh... Yes, exactly. Decadence is also fun: today we celebrate, no matter what tomorrow brings.

Instead of condemning decadent behaviour with a raised index finger, the work makes viewers laugh – and then subtly points out their own decadence.