The 48 argon tubes in light blue that comprise François Morellet's π Weeping Neonly are linked together by their wiring, all of the same length. More or less loosely hanging down, they are arranged in eight vertical sets, each one connected to a transformer affixed high on the wall. The position of the tubes, six in each set, was determined by drawing lots and using the number π. The effect of these precise straight lines which head off in every direction – and by these loose, hanging wires – is one of great disorder. The title π Weeping Neonly was inspired by the appearance of a weeping willow tree, which the work may call to mind. The installation is designed to be affixed on a wall painted in a dark grey color. A co-founding member of Groupe de Recherche d’Art Visuel, Morellet was a key figure in abstract and conceptual art from the 1950s onwards. His use of obvious and simple systems in his work was a way of reducing his own personal input to an absolute minimum. As he once said, ‘Whatever more you will find, apart from my simple systems, belongs to yourself.’
