A HEIM.ART®-Project by Joachim Eckl for the
8th international waste management congress

November 2007
Museum for Applied Art/Vienna

The metal findings that had been recovered in the landfill “Rautenweg” in Vienna are being shown in 4 showcases. Although these objects were exposed to an accelerated aging process, they still pass their imprinted messages. But now their value is perceived against the background of the historic past. Characterized by the process of disposal but revalued by their resistance and stamina, they now tell their stories in layers that have to be uncovered. Their surface tells the message of ageing, decline but also toughness and stamina of a valued object. Below their patina fragments of their actual message and meaning can be found.

Hermes, the messenger of gods, was the most commonly imprinted image on the coins and medals that had been found in the waste.

A short excursus on Hermes and hermeneutics or: We grasp the things that gripped us.
Hermes, the messenger of gods is the tutelary god of tracks and roads, but also of economy, dealers, traffic and hikers. He delivers the messages of the gods to the mortals. He serves as interpreter in doing so and is also god of rhetoric. His task is to mediate and explain the message and finally understanding it. Hermes is also guider of the souls to the entrance of the underworld according to Greek mythology. He is faster than light, is able to euthanize and effect dreams.