Fernanda Gomes at Centre International d'Art et du Paysage, Vassivière

Brazilian artist Fernanda Gomes (b. 1960) presented an exhibition at the Centre International d'Art et du Paysage on the île de Vassivière from October 20, 2013 to January 5, 2014. Using domestic and reclaimed materials, Gomes created fragile, balanced installations that reveal their surroundings without altering the objects' status. The works were placed within Aldo Rossi's symmetrical architecture, a contrast embraced by director Marianne Lanavère. Gomes spent three weeks on the island preparing, gathering materials from the center's reserves and various Limousin locations, evolving the installations until the opening. She emphasizes form and color, arranging elements in lines, stacks, or wall mounts. Neutral colors respect the architecture while subtly subverting it; wood masks intrusive features like a window overlooking the lake. Structural interventions include reducing a double access to a single passage and concealing a bridge with a wooden passage. Natural light is key—no artificial lighting except five neon blocks treated as objects. Window frames were whitened, with glass, porcelain, or red bricks casting shadows on walls. Gomes' plastic economy skillfully orders spaces into harmonious, living environments. The exhibition feels familiar yet surprising, showcasing her ability to invent new forms.