‘The Key in the Hand’ installation by Chiharu Shiota

One of the most powerful, installations at the 56th Biennale in Venice is made by artist Chiharu Shiota at the Japan Pavilion. Her installations consist of two boats, over 180,000 keys and kilometers of red yarn. So simple and yet so universal and strong!

The boats, the red yarn and the keys are such iconic archetypes. They transcend cultural, linguistic, historical contexts as well as political and social circumstances. They speak to us without words. The installation gives everyone the opportunity to make his or her personal journey.

To me the installation reflects our interconnectedness. Our search for belonging. Our uniqueness and our individuality. How we are all in the same boat. Floating through the ups-and-downs in life. Looking for our personal place to call home.

Watch interview with Chiharu Shiota here

Here you will find more on the 56th Venice Biennale

and  Herman de Vries at the Venice Biennale 2015