DECAY WORKS (2023-2016)

"Decay Works"(2016-2023) encapsulates a profound exploration of transformation, impermanence, and the interplay between beauty and decay. Through a meticulous and experimental artistic process, Herck delves into the essence of materials, allowing them to evolve and interact in ways that mirror the natural world's magnetic charge and chemical reactions. This artistic approach reflects an alchemical journey, where the artist observes and collaborates with the materials rather than imposing strict control.

Crushing dinosaur bones and teeth the series engages with historical and mythological associations, drawing inspiration from the past while navigating an uncertain future. This resonance with mythology emphasizes the importance of understanding our cultural heritage as we move forward. The artist's focus on vulnerability and impermanence during the creative process speaks to a deeper exploration of the human experience and the interconnectedness of life and decay.

The concept of beauty intertwined with decay is a central theme in these artworks. By incorporating pulverized bone as a reference to traditional Flemish painting techniques, Herck brings the Vanitas motif to the forefront. This motif serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the inevitability of mortality. The use of various materials, colors, and mediums adds depth and complexity to the exploration of violence, purity, aggression, and their juxtaposition with beauty.

The artworks reveal a multi-layered conceptual balance, inviting viewers to contemplate the intricate relationships between beauty, decay, and the passage of time. This balance is examined through the lens of vanity, as well as the physical processes of destruction and transformation. Additionally, the eternal cycle of light (gold) and darkness (black) contributes to the narrative, with the artworks taking on different moods and atmospheres in varying lighting conditions.

The reference to Georges Braque's quote, "art is a wound that becomes a light," highlights the transformative power of art itself. The fragile nature of the Decay Works adds depth to this metaphor, suggesting that within the vulnerability of life and art lies an enduring essence. The infinite and evolving nature of the Decay sequence encourages contemplation of both our place in the universe and the cyclical nature of existence.

© Text by Lara Van Oudernaarde.
© Photos by Tom Herck, Stijn Elshout and Erik Jamar.