Japanese vocabulary is notoriously complex, with a wealth of words that are difficult to translate because they express precise, highly-defined situations. It sometimes takes several vocables to try and correctly translate a moment, a feeling or an action that only Japanese defines simply, in a single word. 

Asobu 遊ぶ is a verb that would mean “to play”, but in a precise way and in certain situations only. It's a versatile word that can refer to recreational activities such as having fun, spending time with friends, or wandering around with no specific purpose. Although often linked to playful activities, asobu can also be used in broader contexts to express the enjoyment of free time.
 
Boris Tellegen's many trips to Japan have helped him to develop an undeniable attraction for this fascinating culture of ancient traditions and modernity. Regularly exhibited on Japanese soil, the Dutch artist, who has been nourished by Japanese manga, video games and cartoons, has always played with the world of toys, which goes far beyond simple children's entertainment. It's a field where art, design and popular culture meet.
 
Brightly colored sculptures, paintings with two-dimensional constructions and wooden puzzles suggest both an end (Final) and an opening to a world of infinite possibilities (Fantasy), a last great escape or reverie before a decisive turning point.
Tellegen's distinctive style combines a futuristic aesthetic with influences from popular culture, while retaining an architectural sensibility that reflects his interest in structures and buildings. His ability to marry outdoor art with a contemporary, sculptural approach makes him a leading figure on today's art scene.

A trailblazer on the international urban scene, Boris Tellegen endlessly deconstructs the letters of his pseudonym DELTA in works and installations recognized all around the world. Exhibited in many prestigious institutions, including the Fondation Cartier, the Venice Biennale and the FRAC Midi-Pyrénées, he regularly carries out public commissions, such as the alley of 10 monumental sculptures joining the houses of Piet Mondriaan and Gerrit Rietveld in the Netherlands. His works can be found in collections of international renown, notably the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

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