Miniature concrete sculptures of Brutalist structures can be used like grown-up LEGO
This series of concrete sculptures by Canadian architect and sculptor, David Umemoto, draws parallels with the fundamental attributes associated with Brutalist architecture. His work has been described as 'primitivism', as the concrete could be identified with ancient constructions. With the recent resurgence in popularity for the enduring building material, the sculptures appear to have spanned a large passing of time.
Umemoto's artistic approach is highly regulated, coded and rigorous. Each one of his creations seamlessly fits into a conceptual and constructive system. In this system, each work of art is decomposed into modular sections that can then be reorganised and reused to create new works.
Each 'module' can be interconnected physically and conceptually. In this organic process, each work – although unique – finds itself composed in whole, or in part, by elements of previous or subsequent works. Therefore the use of techniques for creating 'multiples' – such as printmaking, casting or moulding – to create unique pieces is essential to Umemoto's approach.
The artist holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the School of Architecture of Université Laval. Over the past 15 years, he has worked on many international projects spanning the fields of art, design and architecture. In 2010 he spent a year in Asia to develop his skills and experiment in woodworking, engraving, sculpture and metal casting techniques. This provided creative fuel for his current project. To find out more, visit davidumemoto.com.
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