Julian Charrière's 'Hard Core' exhibition at Mona, Hobart, is a profound exploration of our planet's deep time and the intricate relationship between human activity and geological forces. This thought-provoking show, spanning sculpture, installation, film, and photography, invites visitors to confront the vastness of Earth's history and our fleeting existence within it.
One of the exhibition's standout pieces is 'Breathe' (2026), a permanent installation that releases oxygen molecules trapped within banded iron formations since the Great Oxidation Event, approximately 2.4 billion years ago. By sealing ancient air within a circular chamber, Charrière collapses geological time into a tangible, immediate experience, challenging our perception of deep history.
'Not All Who Wander Are Lost' (2026) is another significant installation, featuring glacial erratics—boulders carried across continents by ancient ice sheets. These stones, resting atop fractured drill cores repaired with brass, aluminium, and stainless steel, symbolize the slow geological processes and the growing impact of human activity on the Earth. The work prompts questions about our mastery over nature and the consequences of our actions.
Volcanic matter is a recurring theme in the exhibition. 'Thickens, Pools, Flows, Rushes, Slows' (2020) showcases obsidian, a dark volcanic glass, in reflective sculptures that evoke both geological violence and ancient ritual practices. Nearby, lava formations and sound works create an immersive environment inspired by active volcanoes, reminding us of the restless forces beneath our feet.
Curated by Jarrod Rawlins and Olivier Varenne, 'Hard Core' offers a comprehensive survey of Charrière's practice, challenging the notion of nature as passive scenery. Instead, it presents rocks, minerals, glaciers, and atmosphere as active participants in human history. This exhibition is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of our world and the importance of understanding our place within it.
In my opinion, Charrière's work is a call to action, urging us to reconsider our relationship with the environment and the legacy of environmental disruption. His use of deep time and geological materials serves as a powerful metaphor for the impact of human activity on our planet. 'Hard Core' is a must-see for anyone interested in art that challenges our perceptions and encourages a deeper understanding of our world.
