Practice of Emma Kroos revolves around studying surfaces in (geological, systemic, historic) depth, which are then explored and revealed. Usually it is something that we see often and therefore do not notice in public space. Finding ‘that cloistered, obvious thing’ in her surrounding, makes it special and urges an understanding. Through theoretical and material research, she is trying to grasp an essence of that compelling thing. By doing so, she takes what exists out of its context and misshapes its qualities to reflect back on its original context. Showing its rich world and a peculiar vantage point, which would otherwise remain concealed. Resulting in spaces of reflection and contemplation. As a process based maker, the many material experiments and collages, often result in sculptures and installations. Materials are their own beings and Emma Kroos can relate to them through their intimate details. Materials crack and crumble even though they seem firm, they break after a moment of cold, spontaneously, shine brighter than hoped for and sometimes, they do as expected, like life does. This dialog with the material is an important part of the work. Using construction and natural materials, like concrete, glue, plaster, clay, fabric, wood and metal. Its shape unfolds in the chosen place, usually those spaces have this derelict or unfinished status (the building-up and the abandoned). Recently her work relates more to natural surroundings; like landscape elements. The work is informed by architectural elements and meaningful details of that specific place. The surroundings are the framework for the work as it responds. The process of becoming is important as it reflects on life and shows her view on what art could be. The abstracted sculptures influence the space in a poetic, reflective way.
Emma Kroos is an and material researcher. Born and based in Amsterdam. She graduated from the bachelor of the Gerrit Rietveld Academie in 2017. Participated in the honours program: Art & Research while studying. During the studies an interest in sculpture and installation and a project based way of working was established. This way of thinking and working resulted in a self-organised public project in Amsterdam Zuid, the site specific work ‘The Day I Found You’ and public program happened in 2019. After some experience in the field, including residencies in the Netherlands, Kroos studied at the architectural research master of Piet Zwart Institute. Graduated in 2022 with an installation about asphalt. This work was presented in multiple locations in the Netherlands, like NOTW in Rotterdam and in Zwolle as part of the IJsselbiennale in 2023. Next to her own maker-practice, Kroos has been working at the Gerrit Rietveld Academie. Experiencing education from multiple perspectives, she has experience as an assistant tutor at Willen de Kooning Academy, Rotterdam and has been a guest teacher multiple times.
The residency takes place as part of the CCA ŁAŹNIA 'Incubator' project, which aims to present and promote young art. By showcasing its most interesting manifestations, it reveals the new language of art. It is meant to make audiences and curators aware of the enormous potential of the emerging generation of artists. The programme is open to debate and entails individual and group presentations opened to exchange of experience. "Incubator" is thought to confront the young art scene as well as to contribute into the research of its emerging trends.