introduction to the fragment corpora
The Fragment Corpora seeks to expand the notion of the book into something which can be experienced in a three dimensional space. The pages of the book variously represent projections, prints, lightboxes, screens and online presentations and ultimately a large language model (LLM), which is currently in development.
The first element to be completed was the The Fragment Corpora [Folio], a large format handmade book (280x380mm) of screen prints, plate lithographs, chine collé, colour copies and pigment prints, in an edition of 12 copies. Printed in India at Prati Studios in Bengaluru.
An offset-litho edition of 500 copies The Fragment Corpora [book], is currently in production in India and will be available there in December 2025 and the UK from March 1st 2026. The slide show shows a production dummy created by the author. This edition (230x175mm) has 144 pages and an exposed binding with a wrap-around cover, printed in 4 colour process with a florescent title and surround.
A QR code on the cover flap will bring viewers to these pages where more info is available.
Many of elements and themes from the book represent discrete worlds – which can be expanded into artworks suitable for display as parts of The Fragment Corpora installation include:
The Ulam Spiral
The Ulam Spiral is a square spiral of prime numbers represented as white pixels in a black matrix of non-primes. The programming by Dr Richard Christian shows as much of the potentially infinite sequence as can fit within the bounds of the screen. It currently exists on a local server and can be presented as a projection in a gallery space.
The number of each prime number is shown on the screen when the custom cursor passes over it. It represents the mathematical sublime and embodies a key mystery in mathematics.. A unique sound is produced by each pixel as the cursor passes over it which create harmonics as the sounds combine. This work is interactive and can be ‘played’ by visitors to the gallery via a track pad. The sounds provided by composer Georgina Brett.
Mercators
Mercators projection is the most widely used representation of the globe in two dimensions – however there are potentially an infinite variety of such images, all displaying the limitations inherent in attempting to reduce three dimensions to two.
This image is present in the book and also exists as an A2 print – a combined lithograph and screen print.
Paradise Lost
46 small LED screens display the first three lines of Milton’s Paradise Lost – one letter per screen.
The randomised/staggered programming of the text by Dr Richard Christian and Allan Parker allows the text to disintergrate and reform. This work was inspired by a throw away media comment that the internet was “‘…just another Paradise Lost”.
