The atomium could be taken as metaphor: representing a family, a society, a single state, a community of states, the entire world population or even a variety of ideas and concepts.
With her artwork, I want to express that in order to hold together, all of these collectives need a certain structure. A secure static of their union depends on reliable links between the different molecules. I used the pens to represent this link, which could, for instance, stand for channels of communication and exchange. At the same time the pens also guarantee a certain distance between the different members of the collective. This illustrates that despite their union it is also important not to eliminate but to protect their different identities.
In the middle of the sculpture all four light-bulbs are connected to one central bigger light-bulb. This bulb represents a common goal of all members of the collective, for instance to live in peace.
At the bottom of the central light-bulb I attached a variety of electronic cables. They symbolize the “roots” of the central light-bulb providing the energy to make it shine – or, in other words, to achieve the common goal. By using multi-colored wires for the roots, I want to express that realizing a common goal for a community is a complex challenge. It needs a diversity of conditions in order to succeed. For instance, the protection of human rights, social values, financial stability, etc.