Zobop (installation view) 1999

Jim Lambie's 'Zobop' transforms this room through the application of vinyl tape. Notice how these colorful bands converge in a zigzag pattern, echoing motifs found across cultures and throughout history. The chevron, as we call it, has a long lineage. Think of ancient pottery, medieval heraldry, and even military insignia. It reappears in various forms, each time carrying a slightly altered significance. This pattern once symbolized power and identity, but here it seems to evoke a more playful and disorienting effect. Consider the vibrant colors and how they might trigger an almost dizzying effect. This visual dynamic creates a sense of unease that engages our attention and affects how we perceive this architectural space. The zigzag endures as a visual language that connects us across time, demonstrating how symbols evolve in their meaning while still resonating deep within our cultural memory.