Lotta Hannerz: World Maker

Materials: Bronze
Dimensions: 180 × 60 × 60 cm

The life-sized sculpture depicts a man holding a hand puppet. The relationship between the two figures is central to the work. Both appear introspective, and their gazes do not meet, creating a sense of distance and ambiguity.

Puppetry is one of the oldest forms of storytelling and communication, with traditions found across cultures and throughout history. In World Maker, the interaction between the man and the puppet raises questions about communication, identity, agency, and interpretation. Rather than providing clear answers, the work invites viewers to form their own understanding of the scene.

Lotta Hannerz has commented on the desire for definitive interpretations of art:

“People ask for a manual on how to look at and understand my art, but there can be no such thing.”

She has also described the balding man in the sculpture as an alter ego:

“A neutral man, hard to get a grip on.”

The work can be understood as a reflection on the complexity of human relationships and communication. The uncertainty between the two figures encourages viewers to consider how meaning is created, interpreted, and sometimes left unresolved.

Lotta Hannerz is represented in several major collections, including Moderna Museet, Malmö Konstmuseum, and Kunstmuseum Bonn.

The artwork was donated by Lars Bane and Johan Thorell.