This project was first presented in 2022 in Littleton, Colorado. Images remain property of Connor Hesen. Prints available on request.

Artist Statement

Нет войне: No to War

"Нет войне" is an environmental art project created by continuously walking back and forth for several hours until the grass lay flat. Each letter measures roughly 12’ x 6’. The letters have been slightly exaggerated in Adobe Lightroom for digital clarity. The phrase "Нет войне" translates to "No to War."

The piece aims to give a voice to the citizens around the world standing up against tyranny and destruction. Nature always overruns land art with time. It overruns the rubbles of a war-torn country. It will overrun civilization long after we are gone. This earthwork may only be visible for a couple of weeks; the signs may only be held up for a couple of seconds; the remnants of a devastating war may only be visible for a couple of decades. But one thing remains true: human lives will never be restored. Facts should never be forgotten. Invasions should never be tolerated. Freedom will prevail.

The artwork reflects on the impermanence of human constructs, whether they are artistic expressions or the scars left by warfare. It serves as a testament to the strength and determination of those who oppose oppression and violence.

Through this work, I aim to not only capture a moment of protest but also invite viewers to reflect on the broader implications of war and peace. The piece is a call to action, urging us to remember the human cost of war and to strive for a world where freedom and peace prevail.

Follow-up images regarding the status of the land will be provided over time. Hopefully, the war will be over before the piece fades away.

Additional Photos

More Land Art

Invasive (Site/Non-Site) - [2016]

Quarantine - [2016]

Rockway (Micro v. Macro) - [2016]

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Originally published in 2022 by Connor Hesen.

Republished to habla.news/u/hes@nostrplebs.com on 7/5/2024.

Find more of my work at connorhesen.net

This project was first presented in 2016 in Boulder, Colorado. Images remain property of Connor Hesen. Prints available on request.

Site // Teller Lake Number 5

Non-site // University of Colorado Visual Arts Complex

Artist Statement

Invasive: Chaos and Order

"Invasive" is an environmental art project inspired by the concept of "Site / Non-Site," developed by Robert Smithson, a pioneer of Land art in the 1960s. A Site is a location outside the gallery, where the natural materials are collected and documented. A Non-Site is a body of objects and documentation inside the gallery, where the natural materials are transformed and displayed as sculpture.

The project is centered around Teller Lake #5, a location where human intervention has disrupted the natural balance of the ecosystem. Uneasy yet harmonious, eerie yet relaxing. Tall trees invade the path leading to the lake and begin to take over. Broken glass protrudes into walkways. Large slabs of concrete displaced on the beach. In 2013, goldfish are introduced to the lake by man, multiplying rapidly and threatening native species. The ecosystem is broken and infested. Man begins to plot solutions to this problem. In 2015, hungry pelicans arrive and consume most of the goldfish, restoring order to the lake without human intervention. Nature wins again.

The Site features large slabs of concrete on the beach, presumably left by human activity. One of these slabs is in perfect alignment with the lake, creating an unexpected visual connection.

The Non-Site of this project is located in the University of Colorado Visual Arts Complex stairwell, where the materials and impressions from the Site are reinterpreted and re-contextualized.

The Non-Site consists of the concrete slab found at Teller Lake, with a circular dirt ring, representing the slab and the circle found at the Site. The slab is raised off the floor by a cinder block, offering an abstract view of the piece from above. The work also includes photographs and maps of the Site, as well as samples from the area and an eerie audio-track ringing through the echoey space.

"Invasive" delves into the complex relationship between humans and nature by examining the impact of human intervention on Teller Lake #5. The project highlights the tension between the natural and artificial, and encourages viewers to think about the consequences of our actions on the environment. By exploring this issue, "Invasive" invites us to consider the delicate balance between nature and human activity, and how our choices can have far-reaching effects on the world around us.

Additional Photos

Originally published in 2016 by Connor Hesen.

Republished to habla.news/u/hes@nostrplebs.com on 6/30/2024 with slight edits.

Find Me Elsewhere:

[Writings](hes ⚡️)

Website

[Video and Film](hes ⚡️)

Lightning Storefront

No. 6 - Zhujiajiao Canal Chasing

For a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city cruise to Zhujiajiao -- an epic water town dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. It's only about 50 kilometers from the downtown and makes for an easy day trip. Hop on the subway and get there in an hour. Zhujiajiao has canals, bridges, and ancient buildings, offering a glimpse into the town's rich history. Take a boat ride along the canals for the best views of traditional houses and temples. Then explore the town on foot and get lost in attractions like the Kezhi Garden, Yuanjin Temple, and the Qing Dynasty Post Office. Don't forget to grub-up with all of the great food vendors nearby.

No. 7 - China Art Museum

China Art Museum is absolutely worth the trip solely for its awe-inspiring architecture. The towering structure casts a tall shadow over bystanders. Step inside and you'll find a world of art waiting. The blend of permanent and temporary exhibits offers hours of art-gazing. Give yourself at least half a day to fully immerse in the creative haven in Pudong. To get to the China Art Museum, you can take Line 2 of the Shanghai Metro and get off at the Pudong Avenue Station (Chinese: 浦东大道站). The museum is located near Exit 4 of the station.

No. 8 - Days on The West Bund

Hands down my favorite place in Shanghai. This spot is the go-to for a perfect weekend under the sun. You'll find me setting up a blanket with beer, cards, and snacks, along with a slackline and spike ball setup nearby, surrounded by dogs running around, enjoying the company of old and new friends. When you want a little movement enjoy some climbing, skating, running, or basketball after work. The West Bund is an oasis amidst the chaos of the city. But beware - its popularity is growing, so tread lightly.

No. 9 - Nights Under the Lupu Bridge

Nights under the Lupu Bridge are where it's at, man. Hop on your scooter and cruise over for the ultimate skyline views. Stroll along the walkway, munch on street food, sip drinks, and groove to live tunes. Street vendors serve up traditional snacks and crafts, and the vibe gets lit with spontaneous performances and games. Get ready to soak up the electric energy of Shanghai's Lupu Bridge at night."

No. 10 - A Weekend on Chongming

Escape the city hustle and find your peace on Chongming Island. A weekend getaway on this rural gem is just what you need. Chill out in a farmhouse, soak up the sunset, and enjoy the tranquility. Explore the natural wonders, visit the old museums, and feast on fresh seafood. End your days with a beach walk under the stars. Nothing beats a few nights away from the city chaos.

Additional Photos

Previous Guides in the Series:

No. 1-5 // An Expats Guide to the Best Spots in Shanghai: 001

Find Me Elsewhere:

[Writings](hes ⚡️)

Website

[Video and Film](hes ⚡️)

Lightning Storefront

All images are property of Connor Hesen. Published 06.29.2024

(Box) pallet, pallet wood, spray paint, nails [48” x 24” x 24”]

This project was first presented in 2016 in Boulder, Colorado. Images remain property of Connor Hesen. Prints available on request.

Artist Statement

Quarantine: Examining the Impact of Globalization

“Quarantine” examines one node in the complex network of human globalization. The work reflects on the repercussions of global trade and encourages discussion about the benefits - and tradeoffs - that globalization has brought the human species.

At the core of the project lies the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), an invasive insect that has left a trail of devastation across millions of ash trees in the United States. Native to Asia, the EAB hitchhiked its way onto American soil through wooden packing materials. It made its debut in Boulder in 2013 - threatening the existence of nearly 100,000 ash trees in the area. To curb further spread, the federal government imposed a quarantine on all ash wood from affected regions.

As one contemplates the interplay between the various elements of the piece, they should aim to explore their own moral frameworks and seek to dive deeper into questions on progress, connection, and preservation.

“Quarantine” is presented through two elements, each narrating a unique chapter of this ecological saga:

The ash wood panel aims to mimic the characteristics of the EAB’s destruction. The panel is adorned with a font that mimics the signs of infestation and illustrates the relentless assault this tiny creature is causing.

The text is rendered in midnight black, creating a deliberate contrast to that of which it lies—a dialogue between organic and artificial. The word “Quarantine” is displayed as the focal point of the panel to demonstrate a literal interpretation of ‘quarantine on ash’. As viewers engage with the panel they confront the dual forces. Nature’s vulnerabilities and humanity’s impact.

The box stands as a tangible representation of the method of infestation. It symbolizes not only containment, but also the globalized trade that facilitated the EAB’s journey in the first place. Its worn and gritty appearance mirrors the ecological (and economic) damages caused by this innocuous-seeming insect. On one side of the box, a bright red symbol hints at a potential warning to the destination of the ill-fated crate. The top reads 'destruction' in all bold caps. Something feels off.

Globalization, while propelling forward incredible human progress and prosperity, has also created undeniable disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity around the globe. The EAB saga serves as just one case study into the larger topic at hand, revealing the unintended consequences of our interconnected world.

Additional Photos

Originally published in 2016 by Connor Hesen.

Republished to habla.news/u/hes@nostrplebs.com on 2/27/2024 with slight edits.

Find more of my work at connorhesen.net

(Macro) "St. Louis" // photo collage on foam board [16" x 20"]

This project was first presented in 2016, as a diptych installation at the group exhibition, "There to Here: Investigative Topographies from Land and Environmental Art" in Boulder, Colorado. Images remain property of Connor Hesen, but prints can be purchased via DM.

Artist Statement

Rockway: A Reflection on Roads and Nature

“Rockway” examines the concept of Micro v. Macro through the central theme of line; acting as a reflection on ideas of movement and connectivity in today's world. A line, simply defined as the connection between two points, takes on a profound new meaning in our urban landscape. The roads we have constructed, like arteries of the land, connect us to vast possibility. What happens when human progress and creation intersect with the natural world, and what role does that play in our lives?

Boulder Creek (pictured above) explores this intersection at the micro-level, focusing heavily on the delicate balance between humans and their environment. Stumbling upon the nearly 160-foot earthwork presents the viewer with an unnatural line, composed of stones, meandering through the pristine natural landscape. It evokes the winding roads through the mountains nearby one takes to get here- a stark contrast against the wilderness where it sits.

The earthwork employs a singular free-flowing, curvilinear line, representing a departure from the rigid angles of the surrounding landscape. This choice symbolizes more than just movement. It delves into the relationship between the towering skyscrapers, flowing highways, and gridded cities we inhabit. As the eye follows the work from start to finish, it encounters straight lines—those of trees and rocks—interrupting the flow, much like the complex highway systems and cities we build to connect ourselves around the globe.

St. Louis (pictured above) explores the concept of line at the macro-level. In this piece, movement remains a central theme, but the intent shifts. The collage aims to create an unrealistic, yet harmonious, urban highway system. Lines intersect, diverge, and rejoin in nearly impossible ways; calling into question what exactly our future might look like. Each line signifies the movement of humans—from place to place, from birth to departure.

The city of St. Louis holds personal significance. It’s my birthplace, my starting point. The curved form of the line embodies movement and fluidity, echoing my own journey. Highways connect us to places, people, and experiences. They weave our stories, even as they reshape the landscape.

Step back, and the piece appears a unified whole. But lean in and scrutinize the details, and you’ll discover individual clippings and rigid overlaps from the satellite photos it is composed of. Each stone and curve. Each road and line — force us to consider the tale of movement, connection, and balance. "Rockway" invites us step back and dig deeper into the connections we [ourselves] hold with the land; and what responsibility we [as a whole] have in encouraging continued prosperity, while maintaining the delicate balance holding it all together.

Additional Photos

Originally published in 2016 by Connor Hesen. Republished at habla.news/u/hes@nostrplebs.com/1708400183541 on 2/19/2024.

Find more of my work at connorhesen.net

No. 1 - The Less Touristy "Bund"

The Bund is certainly a must-see if you are traveling to Shanghai for the first time - and it will be at the top of every travel guide out there, for good reason - there are equally as stunning alternatives away from the crowds. If you want to enjoy the skyline from a more relaxed perspective, consider the Pudong side of the river. There are parks, basketball courts, and green spaces along the riverbank for you to chill at and take in the sights. You can also hop on a ferry or a sightseeing boat to cross the river and admire the views from the renowned Bund.

No. 2 - Walks Along Golden Street

This one is out in Gubei, a suburban area in the west of Shanghai. It may be a bit of a trek, but it is worth it if you are looking for a more relaxing and peaceful pedestrian street in the city. Golden Street, or Jinxiu Road, is a great place to walk a dog, grab an afternoon drink, or enjoy a romantic dinner with your loved one. While it may be a bit far from downtown, it makes for a great joyride on your scooter or bicycle.

No. 3 - Moganshan Road Graffiti Wall

Moganshan Road is a gem for all things art. It is home to M50, the best art district in the city, where you will find dozens of galleries, studios, and workshops showcasing a wide range of art. There are also plenty of cool spots scattered around the area, particularly the graffiti wall. The wall is a welcome contrast to some of the drab and monotonous architecture found around the city; with colorful display of street art featuring various styles and themes. Stop by and admire the works of local and international artists, and even jump in to join them in adding your own mark. The wall is constantly evolving, so you can always find something new.

No. 4 - Jiaotong University in the Fall

Easily one of the best spots in town for catching rows of bright yellow and red leaves. Jiaotong University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in China. The campus is located in Xuhui District and has a mix of Chinese and Western architectural styles to admire as well. Try to visit in late October or early November for the best leaf-peeping. You can walk along the tree-lined paths, set up a blanket in the field for a picnic, or simply take photos and enjoy the scenery.

No. 5 - Day Drinking at Highline

Hands down one of the top five rooftop bars in the city, along with Bar Rouge, Kartel, and others; Highline is a go-to-spot that offers great views of the city and excellent food. Find it on the sixth floor of the Ascott Hotel in Huaihai Road in Xintiandi. Nothing beats a laid back Saturday afternoon at Highline. I prefer the views during the day, though it is equally as nice a night. Sip cocktails, wine, or beer, and enjoy the music and vibe. Highline is a perfect place to spend an afternoon.

Additional Photos

Previous Guides in the Series:

No. 1-5 // An Expats Guide to the Best Spots in Shanghai: 001

No.6-10 // An Expats Guide to the Best Spots in Shanghai: 002

Find Me Elsewhere:

[Writings](hes ⚡️)

Website

[Video and Film](hes ⚡️)

Lightning Storefront

*Originally published as an Instagram Guide on Feb. 02, 2021.

Reworked and published at habla.news/u/hes@nostrplebs.com/1708203955986 on Feb. 17, 2024.*