Vilma Gold

Mark Titchner

When We Build Let UsThink That We Build Forever

30 Sep – 13 Sep 2005

  • Installation view. When We Build Let UsThink That We Build Forever
, Mark Titchner
    Installation view
  • Installation view. When We Build Let UsThink That We Build Forever
, Mark Titchner
    Installation view
  • Installation view. When We Build Let UsThink That We Build Forever
, Mark Titchner
    Installation view
  • Installation view. When We Build Let UsThink That We Build Forever
, Mark Titchner
    Installation view
  • Installation view. When We Build Let UsThink That We Build Forever
, Mark Titchner
    Installation view
  • Installation view. When We Build Let UsThink That We Build Forever
, Mark Titchner
    Installation view
  • Vilma Gold project space, Berlin, is pleased to present Mark Titchner’s first solo exhibition in Germany. Entitled When We Build Let Us Think That We Build Forever the exhibition comprises of a major new installation that includes elements of video and sculpture.

    When We Build Let Us Think We Build Forever can be seen as Mark Titchner’s attempt to explore legacies of Modernity and it illusions towards permanence. Through a series of reference points ranging from torture methods employed during the Spanish Civil War to repetitive music used to brainwash victims in Stanley Kubrick’s seminal film Clockwork Orange the exhibition looks at the manner in which artistic production has migrated from an aesthetic pursuit to the soft-coercion of government and institutions power.

    On entering the dimly lit space the viewer is confronted by a large black pyramid structure decorated in hand-carved wooden slogans. Suspended from its apex is a three dimensional geometric representation of the biblical burning bush. This temple like structure is surrounded by a series of free standing black fabric screens that demarcate the outer parameter of the gallery. Each screen is covered in a series of motifs taken from diverse sources that include religious and pseudo-scientific research. Projected at intervals between the screens three stylistically differing videos show the Tate Modern building in a superficial process of destruction. The first projection is a contemporary CAD designed architectural fly-round that depicts the building awash with flames. The second projection is a grainy antique-looking black and white view of the museum’s famous Turbine Hall that shows it architectural feature continually melting away over a two minute loop. The final projection is a heavily stylised elevation view of the buildings phallic tower again on fire.

    Mark Titchner lives and works in London. His work has been widely exhibited and international venues including Tate Liverpool, Tate Britain, The Groninger Museum, Museum Morsbroich, Lehnbachhaus Munich, De Appel, State Russian Museum and Museo Tamayo. Forthcoming exhibitions include a solo presentation at Arnolfini, Bristol and groups exhibitions at Peter Kilchmann, Zurich, Zero, Milan and Baltic, Newcastle. ArtForum magazine recently published an in depth feature on Mark Titchner’s use of text. Earlier this year Bookworks, London published an artist’s book by Mark Titchner entitled Why and Why Not.


    For further information or images please contact Martin Rasmussen: +44 (0)20 7729 9888 or: martin@vilmagold.com