Opera | 15 x 15 cm relief (Solid Surface and colour) | 2025

The Sator-Arepo formula is a palindrome and, according to folklore, a magical letter square. The square is found in grimoires across most European countries. Three of the words come from Latin: sator ("sower"), tenet ("holds"), and opera ("works" or "deeds"), but the meaning remains disputed. The Sator-Arepo formula has been known since the first century AD and is embedded in the floor of the church in Cremona, dating back to the 11th century. It is believed to have served as a Christian symbol or password during times when open confession of Christian faith was dangerous. Already in the Middle Ages, it was used as a magic spell. Some have pointed out that the formula contains all the letters of the Pater Noster.

The work is made by O / Petrine Vinje & Carsten Aniksdal.