Šūtum

Šūtum is a laser installation reflecting on the impermanence of laws, norms, and their interpretations. A thin ultraviolet beam writes Akkadian cuneiform inscriptions derived from the Laws of Hammurabi onto a stone surface, while translated phrases appear outside the stone in formulations of the talion principle. As each new sign is written, the earliest traces slowly begin to disappear, so that the cycle continuously rewrites and erases ancient laws on the same surface.

During exhibition, the audience observes a slow process of inscription and fading: line by line, the stone becomes temporarily legible, then loses its earliest marks as the writing continues. The work stages law not as a fixed monument, but as a fragile visual event that appears, persists briefly, and vanishes again. More documentation, images, and video can be found on the project page: slavaromanov.art/2024/shootoom.

Technical Rider

Core Components

The installation includes one autonomous laser projection module. The module includes:

• one 405 nm low-power laser module
• integrated galvanometer system
• programmed microcontroller

Additional core elements of the work include:

• one flat stone coated with photochromic foil
• underlying treated paper
• focused lighting system with two narrow-angle LED spots
• support tripods, adapters, and connection cables

Dimensions / Duration / Scalability

• Approximate installation footprint: 250 x 150 x 170 cm
• Typical cycle duration: approx. 4 to 5 minutes
• The projected text develops in three cycles for each line
• The installation can be adapted to comparable darkened exhibition situations upon consultation

Spatial Requirements

• Minimum recommended space: 2.5 x 4 m
• A completely dark room is strongly recommended
• Daylight or direct sunlight must not reach the installation
• Ambient light from other sources should be reduced as much as possible
• Stable, clean, and non-reflective flooring is required
• The space should be protected from high humidity, dust, and dirt
• The installation benefits from a contained or alcove-like setup with audience access primarily from one side
• Surface preparation is carried out by the artist on site
• The underlying treated paper is also prepared on site

Technical Requirements Provided by Venue

• 220 V / 50 Hz / max. 3 A, Schuko plug system
• Dark-colored power extension with at least 4 sockets
• Power is required for the autonomous laser device and focused light sources
• Maximum distance from power supply to the work: approx. 4 m
• A separate visible power switch or clearly identifiable on/off access for the laser device is recommended as a safety measure

Components Provided by Artist

• Autonomous laser projection device utilizing a 405 nm low-power laser module
• Integrated galvanometer and programmed microcontroller inside the projection device
• Tripod for the laser unit and one light source
• Small tripod for the second light source
• Charging cables, adapters, and USB extension where required
• Flat stone coated with photochromic foil
• Roll of treated paper placed beneath the stone

Sound

The artwork does not include sound and can be installed near sound-based works, provided that neighboring sound levels do not disturb the visual concentration of the piece.

Light

• Two adjustable LED spots with narrow focus are required
• Their positioning should avoid shadows across the laser path
• Reflections and stray light should be minimized

Safety

• The installation should be arranged so that audience access remains on one side wherever possible
• A visible physical barrier and/or luminous floor marking is recommended to prevent visitors from stepping into the laser area
• The beam path and reflective angles must be aligned so that unintended reflections are not directed toward visitors
• Laser safety conditions are determined by the artist during setup and should remain unchanged during exhibition
• Additional technical supervision or a venue contact person nearby is recommended, especially in open or difficult spatial situations
• A dead-man switch or equivalent emergency interruption option should be available on site

Transport

• One Eurobox containing the technical components measures approx. 60 x 40 x 40 cm and weighs approx. 10 kg
• One cardboard box containing the stone measures approx. 50 x 50 x 15 cm and weighs approx. 12 kg
• One roll of treated paper is transported separately
• The artwork is fragile and must be handled with care

Setup / Deinstallation

• Approximate installation time: up to 12 hours
• The artist carries out the on-site setup
• Venue assistance may be required for darkening the room and managing doorways or light leaks
• Final light positioning, laser safety adjustment, and calibration are carried out on site

Daily Operation

• The installation may be organized for scheduled operation via timer
• Daily startup and shutdown should nevertheless be visually checked by responsible staff
• Light sources and laser output should be briefly verified during opening procedures

Maintenance

• Regular operational checks of laser output, alignment, and treated surfaces are recommended
• The installation is designed for autonomous operation, but should not be treated as fully unattended
• Longer exhibition durations should include periodic technical inspection by the artist or in coordination with the venue

Insurance Value

• UV laser and components: EUR 3000
• Coated surfaces: EUR 1000
• Packaging: EUR 200
• Total insurance value: EUR 4200