Picture this: Sophie Nys
Sophie Nys’ artistic practice primarily exhibits two major focal points: on the one hand, a formally executed “art-critical investigation,” and on the other hand, a poetically crafted portrait of everyday life akin to documentary film. Her work is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic of rudimentary graphics, and a preference for ‘simple’ materials such as paper and ‘basic’ techniques like photocopying. In her insightful, relativistic body of work, where humor and self-mockery are often present, conventional practices within the contemporary art scene are frequently subject to scrutiny. However, she does not opt for the well-trodden paths of subtle irony or intricate cleverness, but rather takes a direct approach both visually and conceptually.
For MDD, Nys created a mixed media installation. She cleverly plays with the architecture of the entrance hall, drastically altering perception. Upon entering the museum building, the spectator finds themselves in a bewildering situation: immediately facing a narrow wooden corridor closed off with a door bearing the word “Heren” (Gentlemen). The narrow, dark path evokes thoughts of the dark (passion) path towards redemption. This reflects the relativistic, humorous aspect that is a constant in her body of work. There’s also a nod to Marcel Duchamp’s Fountain (1917). The idea for the construction primarily arose from her dissatisfaction with the presence of toilet doors in her exhibition space. She sought a way to conceal them, creating a more intimate atmosphere.
Various projections and works are installed around it, mainly reflections on her trip to Japan (where she climbed the highest volcano - Mount Fuji) and the renovation work she carried out in her Brussels studio. The photograms, for example, are a clear reference to Japan and were also produced there. The video Buraku reflects on status and discrimination in 21st-century Japan. Sophie Nys shows images of Japanese shops where prints of idols can be bought, pondering who among them is also Buraku. Buraku means ‘less than human.’
Self-deprecation within her work is particularly evident in the slide projection in the enclosed ticket counter area, where “SMART IS OK, LUCKY IS BETTER” is alternately projected. It’s a quote from the American author William Stafford, referring to her career. In addition to the artistic quality of the work, an artist must also have a dose of luck to become successful.
