Not Vital’s "Tuor per Susch" at Muzeum Susch is a fusion of sculpture and architecture, transforming Susch's landscape. This 10-meter marble tower redefines the village skyline, blending historical depth with modern artistry.
Crafted meticulously from a single block of marble over two years by the esteemed artisans Gabriele and Umberto Togni of Pietrasanta, this tower is not merely an addition to the collection in Susch; it is a redefinition of the village’s skyline. Standing 10 meters tall on a meadow above the Muzeum Susch, the structure engages in a silent yet potent conversation with the three existing towers: Tuor La Praschun, Tuor Planta, and the Romanesque tower of the local church. Each of these historical edifices, with foundations reaching back to the 12th and 13th centuries, imbues the village with a rich architectural heritage. "Tuor per Susch" extends this lineage into the contemporary era, blending historical continuity with innovative artistry.
The choice of marble is deeply significant. Not Vital’s long-standing relationship with this medium began in the early 1980s in Pietrasanta, a town renowned for its marble quarries since the 15th century. Marble, along with other materials like bronze, plaster, and stainless steel, forms the bedrock of Vital's multidisciplinary practice. In "Tuor per Susch," the marble’s polished surface and the sheer scale of the tower explore the boundaries of human skill and craftsmanship, while simultaneously reflecting the raw, imposing nature of the surrounding alpine landscape.
Vital’s work often transcends the conventional limits of sculpture and architecture, creating immersive environments that challenge the viewer’s perception of space and structure. "Tuor per Susch" is no exception. Its open form invites contemplation and interaction, offering a shelter that paradoxically remains open to the elements. This duality speaks to some of the fundamental tenets of architecture—providing refuge while harmonizing with nature.
The tower's creation is also a testament to time and dedication. The extensive labor invested in its carving and polishing mirrors the slow, persistent forces of nature that shaped the alpine surroundings over millennia. Positioned above 1400 meters above sea level, the tower stands as a beacon of human endeavor and artistic vision amidst the daunting, rugged landscape.
Not Vital's statement, "Ars una est. It is all one. While I don’t like order, I do like the harmony," encapsulates the essence of "Tuor per Susch." The tower embodies a harmonious convergence of art and environment, past and present, order and freedom. It is a physical manifestation of Vital’s philosophy, a structure that transcends its material form to become a symbol of unity and continuity.
