Olnetopia is an abstract outdoor sculpture that consists of whimsical, organic forms. The whole has something monstrous, a hybrid composition in which we can recognise various elements. The work cannot be described unequivocally, but points different directions. The visual language is clearly inspired by macro photographic shots of splashing water, thus giving sculptural form to the encounter between nature and technology. The way a natural erosion process generates irregular, complex structures, has always fascinated Nick Ervinck.
Olnetopia is completely digitally designed, but nevertheless handcrafted and tangibly made of polyester. It is precisely this constant interaction and tension between the virtual and the real that Nick Ervinck always seeks as an artist. This sculpture is inspired by natural
dynamics, but is at the same time inspired by the power of the virtual (Lat. virtus). The virtual form is not 'liberated' from matter, through a process of chipping away or chiselling away, but becomes a productive or generative principle in itself.