Inspired by Tibetan Prayer Wheels and the Japanese epigram “the reverse side also has a reverse side” (物事には裏に裏がある – monogoto niwa ura ni ura ga aru), the bell is an amazing feat of bell making, explores themes of hidden complexity and layered meaning. As with most oriental bells, it is struck from the outside with either a specially-made stainless steel or wooden clapper. The sound is mesmerising, rising, falling and resonating in a hypnotic way.
Paula Crown, The Reverse Side Bell © Oak Taylor-Smith | Factum Arte
Ringing the Reverse Side Bell © Oscar Parasiego | Factum Foundation
The epigram “The reverse side also has a reverse side,” suggests a philosophical view that invites deeper scrutiny beyond the apparent. It implies that what we see or believe is not all there is; there are often hidden layers or complexities to everything. The word “ura” can mean both “reverse” and “hidden,” indicating that there’s always something more beneath the surface. This perspective encourages a curious and investigative approach to life, understanding that things are not merely as they seem. There is a mystery inherent in this idea, akin to an endless reflection between two mirrors, suggesting infinite possibilities and interpretations.
Paula Crown
The embossed and debossed texts, in a style referring to Crown’s 2019 series The Reverse Side Epigraph and her own handwriting of the Japanese proverb, read around the bell, each creating a visual and acoustic rhythm.
Translating the text into a cylindrical physical object © Courtesy Paula Crown
Making the mould for casting in bronze © Courtesy Paula Crown
Paula Crown with the mould and 3D printed positive © Courtesy Paula Crown
The bell in Factum’s workshop © Factum Foundation
Detail of the bell © Courtesy Paula Crown
The Reverse Side Bell on display at Sunnylands © Braden Weeks Earp
The bell was first displayed at the Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands in Rancho Mirage (Palm Springs, California), a historic estate that has been a retreat for U.S. presidents and a convening place for world leaders since 1966. Since 2012, Sunnylands has hosted world leaders and experts in a range of fields to address national and international issues.
