Jon Kipps [X]

About

X is an abundant symbol and has long been featured in science fiction, mathematics and physics. X can mean unknown, something denied, a problem to solve, a position, a wrong, an indicator of potential and even a kiss. X marks the spot. We encounter cross bracing [X] subconsciously every day for example when we walk under a railway bridge or sit on a chair. The shape gives structural support to all manner of physical objects in our built environment. Now, the richest person in the world uses X to shape his future vision for humanity through ventures such as SpaceX, X.com and even naming his child X Æ A-Xii (X being their first name). Historian Jill Lepore describes our current system, fuelled by Silicon Valley, as X Capitalism. X is around us.

This motif has been translated readily into many of Kipps’ new series of wall sculptures. Whether the symbol is explicitly featured or not they are all imbued with the same kind of unknown and potential meaning X has come to signify. They fit into our environment like cryptic signposts - beautified, ornate but nonetheless arcane architectural fixtures.