Rina Franz

A matter of degree

18th October to 5th November 2011

In 2010 I was awarded a six month residency in Basel, Switzerland. This was my first long-term residency outside of Australia and I had no expectations of how this experience would evolve. All I had was a concept to investigate and a desire to increase my knowledge of the world outside my own.

Being in a different environment allows you to take risks and view things differently. It also exposes you to new cultural experiences where political, social and environmental issues emerge.

My original proposal was to investigate the concept and meaning of transient space. I was interested in exploring the way that geographical and cultural differences influence our perspectives. This continues to be my main area of enquiry.

During my residency the meaning of transient space took a slightly different turn. I became strongly interested in the phenomena of the melting Swiss glaciers. This environmental problem is changing some of the natural borders between Switzerland and neighboring European countries.

I was drawn to this issue not only for its environmental effect but also for its social and psychological impact. This has particular significance in a small and unique country like Switzerland where borders are still guarded within a borderless unified Europe.

My research during the residency involved numerous trips hiking across some of the most incredible Swiss glaciers. Equipped with unaccustomed mountain gear and a backpack I carried only the essential material to document the locations of interest. Sketches and ideas were recorded on paper and visual diary during the summer, autumn and winter. This allowed me to see the various changes in the landscape in the most affected areas.

‘A Matter of Degree’ is a body of work in progress developed in response to my research of the melting Swiss glaciers. Sadly, this breathtaking view of the world is quickly disappearing.

Rina Franz
June 2011

All enquiries welcome: Tel: (03) 9417 2828 Email: enquiries@catherineasquithgallery.com.

Please click on images to enlarge, and view details of works.

Reaching the Top	Points of View	Rhythm
Constant Changes	Ice Cold	Altitude	Broken Line
Above the Tree Line	Gazing into the Distance	Across the Glacier Valley
A Matter of Degree #5	A Matter of Degree #6	A Matter of Degree #7	A Matter of Degree #10