A Tasmanian Reading Room
Brigita Ozolins
A Tasmanian Reading Room is an interactive installation that invites reflection about the state through its published historical and fictional writing. The work is inspired by the concept of an island, architectural elements of The Old Mercury Building, as well as the writings of Argentine Canadian bibliophile Alberto Manguel, who claims that books reflect who we are and how we are to be judged.
Tasmanian Reading Room is constructed as a miniature library and reading room, accessible via an external vestibule. The aim is to evoke a sense of mystery, contemplation, and discovery, of encountering an ongoing narrative about the southern latitudes that are in a constant state of change.
Visitors are invited to browse and contemplate an ever-growing collection of books in which Tasmania is the protagonist, immersed in a soundscape featuring 42 voices reading excerpts from selected texts. There is a possibility of adding books to the library on a return visit.
Date: 2018
Location: Detached Artist Archive Hobart
Brigita Ozolins
A Tasmanian Reading Room
Building with circular room, domed ceiling, 2 vestibules, table, stools, approx 2,000 books, hand-painted map, text & audio track (50’ loop)
Wood, plywood, chicken-wire, plaster, timber stain, mirrored stainless steel, glass, lighting, 8m (l) x 4m (w) x 4m (h) approx.