When discussing metal, the common association is often its materiality and metallurgical aspects. As a material, metal is a vital medium for visual arts, music, and other realms, serving as a versatile medium for creative expression and cultural exploration. From intricate metalwork in sculpture to the powerful themes of metal music, its connections span various domains, reflecting resilience, rebellion, and special aesthetics. However, metal encompasses more than mere physical presentations. For example, in an etymological sense, the term “heavy metal” gained prominence as a character named “Uranian Willy, the Heavy Metal Kid” in William S. Burroughs’ novel. Over time, it evolved into a metaphor for addictive drugs. Metal historian Ian Christe elaborates that “heavy” conveys potency or profundity, while “metal” evokes a mood of grinding weightiness. This linguistic evolution, stemming from beatnik and countercultural slang, was already apparent by the mid-1960s, particularly in references to “heavy music.” In essence, metal transcends its physicality to become a symbol of cultural significance, embodying themes of potency, profundity, and weightiness across various artistic and linguistic contexts throughout history.

During our June program, “Metal at all,” we invite you to broaden your perception of metal, exploring its conceptual, metaphorical, and critical dimensions through a group exhibition featuring works by Ode to the Bronze foundry, the duo Petra Dubach & Mario van Horrik, and Yeon Sung. Their creations will showcase the multifaceted nature of metal, surpassing conventional associations and delving into alternative perspectives.

Alongside the immersive exhibition, we have prepared a series of events aimed at reshaping your understanding of metal. On the opening day, Ode to the Bronze Foundry (artist collective Lieve van den Bijgaart & Dani Andres) will share their thoughts about bronze casting, while Yeon Sung will delve into her research on copper trade titled “Rusty Odyssey”. Mario van Horrik will present their ingenious long-string sound-installation. Additionally, our in-house musician Arif Aksit will share insights into heavy metal during a movie night on Sunday. Through a diverse array of artworks and activities, we aim to stimulate deeper reflections and perspectives on the concept of metal, embracing its transformative potential and celebrating its capacity to inspire evolution and change. We extend a warm invitation for you to join this journey and embrace the transformative potential of metal!