Rubidendron

As one of the first English gardens in Switzerland, Wartegg Park at Rorschacherberg emits staged naturality which Ruben Maria actively engages within his artistic work. The site-specific “Rubidendron” in the feudal Wartegg Park oscillates between realness and simulation. At first glance, “Rubidendron” appears to be an assembly of fallen trees; in fact, the rutted and bent pieces are sandstone. Conceptualised for a public space, the sculpture becomes a ‘trompe l’oeil’, a moment of irritation. The idea for “Rubidendron”, the final presentation for the sculptor’s certificate, arose on a stroll through the park. The artist intended to offer an alternative to the white park benches and designed a seating arrangement that invites to contemplate and pause.