Our Thursday series features must-read books from each branch of the art bookshop NADiff. This week, we feature "PUBLIC SCULPTURE," a collection of works by the art unit POLKE AND WEISS. It's introduced by the flagship store, NADiff Apartment, in Ebisu, Tokyo (1F NADiff a/p/a/r/t, 1-18-4 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo).
■ "PUBLIC SCULPTURE" by POLKE AND WEISS
"The first thing that strikes you is the clean, bleached space of a public toilet in Tokyo. The simplicity of the space, complete within itself, has a beauty and functionality that is reminiscent of old Japanese tea rooms." --Polke And Weiss
POLKE AND WEISS is an art unit formed by Gloria Polke from Poland and Richard Weiss from Hungary. This book is a collection of their projects, focusing on Tokyo's toilets.
By photographing and reconstructing each individual object in the bathroom, they trace their own impressions and create sculptures. This approach is reflected in the book's design; by turning the pages of the books alternately, one bathroom space seems to be reconstructed into another.
Looking at the photographs, the orderly arrangement of the soap dispenser, faucet, toilet bowl, and other functional items feels almost sculptural. A black sponge is placed on the spine, and the two books are placed on either side of it. We hope you will enjoy the intricate binding as well as the new perspective on the public space known as the toilet.
In connection with the sale of this book, NADiff a/p/a/r/t is hosting a POLKE AND WEISS pop-up shop called "New Life" in the store, as well as an exhibition called "VERMILION / PRUSSIAN BLUE" in the restrooms.
[Book Information]
"PUBLIC SCULPTURE"
Author: POLKE AND WEISS
Publisher: RONDADE
Softcover / 300 x 300 mm / 42 pages
Language: English
Number of copies: Limited to 50
Publication Year: 2016
Price: 4,536 yen (tax included)
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[Exhibition Information]
POLKE AND WEISS "A New Life", "VERMILION / PRUSSIAN BLUE"
Venue: Toilets and interior of NADiff a/p/a/r/t
Address: 1-18-4 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Dates: June 11th - July 30th
Hours: 12:00 - 20:00
Closed: Mondays
Free admission
