The context of the work refers to the world as it was when the artist made the work, but also includes events that have happened since which change our reading of the piece. Although Cold Dark Matter might resonate with specific news events, the artist avoids a narrow interpretation of the work through her choice of title which nudges us into another way of looking at the work. The title therefore gives the work a whole new dimension of meaning and reminds us of the artist's broader interest in the relationship between creation and destruction. Her interest in space and physics has continued in other pieces she has made, most obviously in her recent talks with NASA to return a meteorite to space.

The artist also talks about 'avoided objects', of working with objects and ideas that might make her fearful. By putting objects through a process of transformation, she lessens her anxiety. By using these terms and ideas to discuss her work, the artist is referring to the world of psychoanalysis. In addition, links can be made with the Surrealists, their fascination with the world of the unconscious and the metamorphosis of everyday objects.

The work of other artists is also an important context. Compare Cornelia Parker's work to other large-scale installations in the Collection, for example those by Damien Hirst, Richard Long and Joseph Beuys.

Discussion points

• The meaning of the artwork never remains stable but changes as events happen in the world. What events might inform your reading of 'Cold Dark Matter'?
• Can you find evidence of recurrent themes in Cornelia Parker's work?
• How does it compare to other works in the Collection dealing with similar subject matter (for example Rebecca Horn's 'Concert for Anarchy' and Cesar's 'Portrait of Patrick Waldberg')?