Jane Simpson

Between, 1992

material: wood, brass, plastic, refrigeration units, castors and steel
dimensions: 127 x 115.5 x 62cm
acquisition date: 1999
gift of Charles Saatchi
© the artist
ACC240/1998

Jane Simpson subjects her sculptures to extremes of temperature to destabilize solid form. This work features two ovoid units, each fitted with a refrigeration plate. When seen together, the forms resemble the profile of a heart. The two elements are positioned a few centimetres apart with the refrigeration plates facing each other. As the plates frost over they grow together until they join and create a thick union of sparkling ice.

The units are defrosted every five days and the process is then repeated. Linking and then separating again, the two sides of the heart create a metaphor for human love.