The actions by Sven Boel situate themselves on an interpersonal level. I choose to use the word ‘actions’ instead of ‘works’ and refrain from using terms like ‘sculptures’ or ‘performances’, because in everything he does, he explores the outer boundaries of these definitions, while ultimately blending them together. He creates a pendulum between shapes, disciplines and media. He experiments, sculpts and paints. His relationship with the physical image feels like a game or a friendly fight, with mutual respect and acceptance: if the sculpture wins, the creator must yield.

Although his colorful sculptures would be considered very abstract, they always feel accessible through a familiar feature, comparable to the familiarities between people themselves, even though they might not speak the same language. Some have the size and weight of a ball; others look like a boxing ball or a wheel and even have a handle. Through this process Sven Boel addresses our sense of touch, a reflex to interact (tactile or linguistically).

In the mind of Sven Boel an idea usually starts with interpersonal communication: an insignificant conversation or a remarkable expression. This is exactly what his sculptures try and touch upon in their final shape: they are seldom static. Usually, he activates them via a self-built mechanism, or he uses his own physical strength. The performance aspect of his work relates to our daily actions, words and expressions: a search for communication, reaching for the other person. When his work encourages an exchange, it can be deemed as finished. The essence lies in the build-up of interaction, interest or response that his actions trigger with another person.

There is a reality or an experience and there is communication towards the other. The underlying interaction is essential for a human being, yet we often fail in communicating and bringing the right message across. Our native language is insufficient. This can cause misinterpretation and confusion, but the realization of our absurd -and sometimes pathetic- attempts to communicate with fellow human beings, opens the door for humor, playfulness and empathy. This perfectly summarizes Sven Boel’s work: he explores the relationship between reality, sculpture and communication. His actions situate themselves in a subjective interspace, where he observes the interpersonal game of coincidence, symbols, gestures and reactions.

Tamara Beheydt, februari 2023

Photo: © Sven Boel