Pong, 2016

Louie Cordero (Philippines, 1978)
Sonsbeek ’16, Rodenburgstraat and sculpture garden Museum Arnhem, Arnhem

Two children, around ten years old, are playing table tennis on an unusual ping-pong table. The table has an irregular, cloud-like shape. Furthermore, it is not green with white lines but features a vibrant pattern with various abstract shapes and bright colors. A net stands in the middle. The ping-pong table is in the park, where other people are sitting on the grass and children are playing soccer. — *Photographer: Maurice Boyer*

The ping-pong tables by the Filipino artist Louie Cordero bring a piece of Manila’s colorful street life to Arnhem. The tables, made of fiberglass and painted with vibrant patterns, are inspired by the Jeepneys—buses in Manila that are traditionally lavishly decorated.

The project aligns with TransACTION, the theme of Sonsbeek ’16, described by the curators from ruangrupa as “an exchange between two or more people.” The work invites gathering and interaction: during the exhibition, paddles and balls were provided daily. Today, the tables can still be used, provided visitors bring their own equipment.

Of the four tables that Cordero made, two were acquired by the municipality of Arnhem. One is located in the sculpture garden of Museum Arnhem, the other on Rodenburgstraat, near the Focus Film Theater. Each table has a unique decoration, making them together a colorful, playful ensemble that serves as both art and a meeting place.

Pong, 2016

Inleiding