The Limits Transcended: The Transformative Work of Iven Orx & Aaron Vinn

Iven Orx and Aaron Vinn are contemporary German artists. In their works, they explore the expansion of perceptual experience.

Rainer Maria Rilke, one of the most significant poets of the 20th century, pursued a profound approach to art. His concept of art was based on the idea that true art establishes a transcendent connection to the inner world of artists and captures the essence of life itself. Rilke’s artistic approach is of eminent relevance to the overall body of work by Orx and Vinn. Analogous to Rilke, they emphasize self-exploration and personal growth as essential components of their artistic practice. They believe that authentic art can only be created through an honest engagement with one’s own self and the exploration of one’s feelings and experiences. Similarly, Orx and Vinn also view the world around them with deep mindfulness and sensitivity. They observe the nuances of everyday life, discover the aesthetics in nature and in people, and draw inspiration for their works from it.

Through their mentorship with the renowned avant-garde artist Mary Bauermeister, Orx and Vinn gained extensive expertise and a profound mastery of art. They delved deep into their transrational artistic approach and were inspired by their avant-garde mindset. Their collaboration with her as assistants allowed them to benefit from her extensive wealth of experience and outstanding expertise. This connection undoubtedly significantly shaped their artistic development. Bauermeister was part of the Fluxus movement and was influenced by the ideas of C.G. Jung. Jung placed special emphasis on the unconscious, archetypes, and the connection between art and spirituality. This influence of Jung on Bauermeister is integrated into the artistic work of Orx and Vinn.

The artistic philosophy of Iven Orx and Aaron Vinn shows parallels to the concept of epiphany from James Joyce’s work. Joyce was a significant Irish writer of the 20th century, known for his innovative experimental writing style that pushed the boundaries of traditional narrative structure. An essential feature of his writing was the use of inner monologues and streams of consciousness that immersed his readers deeply into the minds of his characters. Epiphanies in James Joyce’s literary work refer to key moments in which the protagonists suddenly experience a realization or revelation that fundamentally alters their perception of the world or their own existence. These moments are typically mundane or everyday but have profound emotional or intellectual significance. Similar to Joyce, Orx and Vinn emphasize the importance of transcendental moments and profound insights in their artistic practice. They aspire to expand the dimensions of perceptual experience. Through their art, they aim to lead the viewers into a deeper dimension of being and establish a connection with universal life energy. They use both classical and unconventional means, materials, light, and dimensions to realize their visions, similar to Joyce’s experimental writing style.

The exploration of the metaphysical essence of art and transcendence are central aspects of the artistic philosophy of Orx and Vinn. Their introspective work unites artistic visions that break traditional boundaries. Convinced that true art transcends the limits of the everyday, they strive to expand the viewers’ perception.