Nicolás Lomas: Sculpting Tension Between Matter and Perception

Born in Lima, Peru, in 1980, Nicolás Lomas’s artistic journey is a compelling exploration of the dynamic relationship between human experience and the tangible world. His work, currently residing in Brussels, Belgium, transcends simple categorization, existing as a potent blend of installation art, sculptural assemblage, and conceptual investigation. Lomas doesn't merely create objects; he orchestrates encounters—a deliberate provocation designed to disrupt established perceptions and invite viewers into a dialogue with the inherent tensions within matter itself.

Early influences undoubtedly stemmed from his Peruvian heritage, a land rich in archaeological history and layered cultural narratives. However, Lomas’s trajectory shifted dramatically when he relocated to Europe, pursuing formal training at prestigious institutions like the Universidad de Barcelona and the Hoger Instituut voor Schone Kunsten, Gent. This move marked a pivotal moment, exposing him to European artistic traditions while simultaneously fostering an independent vision—a desire to dissect and reassemble familiar elements into unsettling yet strangely beautiful compositions.

The Language of Assemblage

At the core of Lomas’s practice lies a masterful manipulation of assemblage. He doesn't begin with a singular concept or image but rather with a collection of seemingly disparate objects—used everyday items, organic materials like bones and wasp nests, coral fragments, and even discarded technological artifacts. These elements are then meticulously arranged, juxtaposed, and often transformed, creating sculptures that defy easy interpretation. As Alejandro Alonso Diaz notes in *The Attraction of the Mountains*, “Matter exists differently here,” highlighting Lomas’s deliberate disruption of conventional notions of objecthood.

His work frequently references archaeological aesthetics—the careful excavation and reconstruction of past civilizations—but subverts this approach by imbuing his assemblages with a distinctly contemporary sensibility. He draws upon digital technologies, linguistic references, and a fascination with the ephemeral, blurring temporal boundaries and challenging the stability of traditional artistic categories. The artist’s stated interest in “potentiality” – the latent state where an object can be anything – is evident in his ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary.

Notable Exhibitions and Recognition

Lomas's work has garnered significant attention within the international art community, with exhibitions held at prestigious institutions worldwide. Key milestones include solo shows at Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst (S.M.A.K.) in Ghent, FORMat in Amsterdam, and the Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw. His pieces have also been featured in group exhibitions such as *Permafrost: Forms of disaster* at MO.CO, *An exhibition with works by... Witte De With*, and *The intention of things* at CAB Art Center. He’s received awards recognizing his innovative approach, including the SOFAM Prize for Best Solo Show at Art on Paper in 2017.

Recent exhibitions showcase a continued exploration of themes such as memory, decay, and the interplay between human and natural worlds. Works like *Fluid past*, *Transient data*, and *Collective memory* directly engage with contemporary concerns surrounding information overload and the shifting nature of reality. His 2025 exhibition at Meessen De Clercq, *Fluid minds*, promises to further delve into these complex relationships.

A Persistent Dialogue

Nicolás Lomas’s art isn't simply about presenting objects; it’s about initiating a dialogue—a conversation between the viewer and the work itself. He challenges us to reconsider our assumptions about matter, perception, and the very nature of reality. His meticulous approach, combined with his willingness to embrace ambiguity and disruption, solidifies Lomas as a significant voice in contemporary art, pushing boundaries and inviting audiences into a world where the familiar is perpetually transformed.

His ongoing project involving the design of a new center for physics in Graz, Austria, further underscores his interdisciplinary approach—a testament to his belief that artistic inquiry can illuminate complex scientific concepts. Lomas’s work continues to evolve, promising a rich and rewarding experience for those willing to engage with its layered complexities.