Nadja Abt
BPA at Gropius Studios
Bivalvia Capas
“Bivalvia” is derived from bivalve molluscs. It refers to shell molluscs with two valves that expel their excreta via the heart. Bivalvia have locking muscles that can keep their outer shell closed with little energy expenditure. They can also change sex several times.
The Portuguese term “Capas” refers to a work series of capes by Brazilian artist Hélio Oiticica, named Parangolés. The Bivalvia Capas can be activated by wearing them.
Nadja Abt, Bivalvia Capas, installation view, BPA at Gropius Studios, 2020. Gouache and shells on canvas, 246 x 246 cm
Photo: Eric Bell
Bio
Nadja Abt is an artist and writer living between Berlin and Lisbon. Abt studied Literature and Art History at Freie Universität Berlin, and Fine Arts at Universität der Künste Berlin and the Universidad Torcuato di Tella in Buenos Aires. She is part of the artist collective Michelle Volta. Recent exhibitions and performances include KW – Institute for Contemporary Art, Berlin, Haus der Kulturen der Welt, Berlin, Pivô, São Paulo, Casa Triângulo, São Paulo. She has upcoming shows at Bärenzwinger, Berlin (April 2021) and Galeria Diferença, Lisbon (October 2021).
