SONJA HINRICHSEN is a fine artist based in Germany and the USA. She has participated in several art residencies in the USA, Germany and Poland.

My artwork refers to immediate environments, both the urban spaces I live in as well as industrial and natural surroundings. I am interested in aspects of humanity, society and ecology.

On the one hand it is common occurances that catch my attention. I am interested in pointing out aspects of life that we usually do not question because they seem insignificant. On the other hand I devote my attention to elements that have faded out of our minds. These can be old legends and myths as well as historical records of particular sites. In my work I react on these forgotten things, appoint more importance to them and direct the audiences’ focus towards them.

I begin with an analytical process by researching specific sites. When I choose a site for an art project, I spend a lot of time experiencing the new environment, gathering historical information, speaking with local people and consulting with specialists in particular fields. Their contribution is essential and I highly appreciate it. According to these impressions and influences I determine a criteria for mapping out the terrain I investigate. I use video, photography and sound to map the project.

I create installations with video and sound / voice. Some of them are interactive. I like the challenge of making pieces that allow my audience to engage in them playfully. It is important that they enjoy spending time with my work.

http://www.s-hinrichsen.net/