Eugenio Ampudia’s

Imagine stepping into a room where silence reigns supreme, its tranquility mirrored by a vast rectangular pool of water. As you navigate this serene space, your every movement ripples the water’s surface, subtly disrupting the prevailing stillness. This is the essence of Eugenio Ampudia’s captivating artwork, “Every word is like an unnecessary stain on silence and nothingness.”

The Allure of Silence and the Urge to Communicate

Ampudia’s creation is a thought-provoking exploration of the tension between the irresistible allure of words and communication, and the unattainable state of pure contemplation. The tranquil water surface symbolizes the silence that we often crave, a sanctuary where thoughts can flow freely without the interference of language. Yet, as we move through the space, our interactions inevitably disturb the water’s serenity, mirroring the constant urge to express ourselves through words.

Technology as a Bridge Between the Two Realms

Ampudia ingeniously employs technology to bridge the gap between silence and communication. Concealed beneath the water’s surface lies a sophisticated system of iRobota Mega, iRobota GSM shield, and valves. When a phone call is received, the system responds by opening a valve, generating movement in the water and breaking the stillness. This interaction between technology and the physical world serves as a metaphor for the way words can both disrupt and enrich our experience of silence.

A Journey Through the Exhibition

Visitors to the Abierto X Obras exhibition room at the Matadero Madrid art center, where the artwork is currently on display, are invited to immerse themselves in this unique sensory experience. As they navigate the space, they become active participants in the artwork, their movements and interactions shaping the ever-changing patterns on the water’s surface. The artwork challenges us to reflect on the role of language in our lives, and to consider the delicate balance between silence and communication.

The Power of Contemplation

In an era defined by constant communication and information overload, Ampudia’s artwork offers a poignant reminder of the power of contemplation. By embracing silence, we create space for introspection, creativity, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. “Every word is like an unnecessary stain on silence and nothingness” invites us to question our relationship with language, to seek moments of stillness, and to appreciate the beauty of the unspoken.

Bonus: Ampudia’s artwork resonates with the ancient wisdom of Eastern philosophies, which emphasize the importance of silence and contemplation. In Zen Buddhism, for instance, the practice of zazen, or seated meditation, is central to achieving a state of mindfulness and inner peace. The concept of “wu wei,” or non-action, encourages individuals to let go of striving and allow things to unfold naturally, much like the undisturbed water surface in Ampudia’s artwork.

In conclusion, Eugenio Ampudia’s “Every word is like an unnecessary stain on silence and nothingness” is a multi-sensory masterpiece that challenges our notions of communication and silence. Through its innovative use of technology and its immersive experience, the artwork invites us to contemplate the delicate balance between the spoken and the unspoken, and to appreciate the transformative power of silence.