The Black Number
The black numeral refers to the difference in subjectivity between two opposing forces. Between fantasy and rationalism, these figures ultimately prove to be false since they are based on an unknown. It is these unknowns that Nicolas Daubanes is attacking. The exhibition Le Chiffre Noir is not a pleasure walk. Quite the contrary. The subjects treated by the artist are neither beautiful nor light. And yet. In his practice, Nicolas Daubanes confronts the strongest or most fragile materials that are created from fire. For this solo exhibition at the Drawing Lab, concrete, glass, ceramics, iron filings (signature)… are works that carry stories that question us in our relationship with the past and the collective memory.