In this book Philip Metten presents a series of collages. These works are the assorted result of a process that is at the core of the artist’s practice. Most, if not all, of Metten’s work is grounded in a daily activity of collaging bits and pieces of paper into geometrically complex configurations. The resulting graphical compositions serve as the basis for other work, ranging from sculptures, wall reliefs, to larger architectural installations. Innumerable elements of different geometrical shape, stratification, color and texture have been assembled into labyrinthine three-dimensional surfaces. Not a single element in any of these collages is actually identical. The frayed edges of the miscellaneous elements, specks of glue, traces of Tipp-ex, as well as the many pencil lines and marks betray the time that went into making these panels. Once the works are mounted vertically on the wall, a fascinating play of scale takes place. The almost digital outlook they possess as a whole is shattered by a close-up view. The diverging images Metten’s three-dimensional collages conjure up range from Mesopotamian edifices to hi-tech cities, art deco ornaments to sci-fi vessels. Their retro-futuristic character is further enhanced by the distinct color scheme the artist deploys. Given his predilection for technical drawing paper and copy machine reproduction, pale pink, orange, shallow blue, gray and black reign. These are not the bright colors of publicity or advertising, but the bland hues of administration and engineering.