OPEN/CLOSE

OPEN/CLOSE examinates illuminated signs and words that continuously influence and shape public space - particularly at night. The film is a collection of illuminated signs recorded in Vienna over the past six years. The installation explores the space between the apparent clarity of messages and the ambiguity of binary states. NIKOLA HERGOVICH is a photographer and transdisciplinary artist. He studied architecture at TU Vienna. His artistic work is a blend of different interests and disciplines – often but not only operating in the field of architecture. Since 2014 he is represented in various exhibitions and publications. In 2023 he released a photo book about anonymous architecture titled “Naive Architektur”. He lives and works in Vienna. About: Primarily the photographic aspect was an extension of my architectural discussion with the environment and my surrounding. Later it became it’s own praxis, which can also be treated separately. Today I’m interested in my direct ambiance. Sometimes with personal reference, sometimes as note or reminder. I like non moving objects, ordinary places, anonymous architecture, places with certain rules. I mostly shoot on 35mm color film, but i also use text, video, drawings and models. I try to play with scale. Zoom in and out. Get small details. Sharpen the focus through abstraction. It is about fleeting places and atmosphere, which are still here, but may be gone soon. nikolahergovich.com @niko__blue