Inspired by an interest in navigational instruments, Eliasson has explored countless variations on the compass over the years. His fascination springs from the way that the instrument, by virtue of its steady indication of north, allows us to situate ourselves in relation to a map or larger context. In fact, compasses orient us not only geographically but also socially. The particular visual sensation of the compass is something we all share, binding us to one another by a single, widespread convention. Almost anything can become a compass by attaching a magnet to it to align it along the north–south axis. Many of Eliasson’s compasses incorporate whatever might be lying around his studio – driftwood, volcanic rocks, steel rings, handblown glass, or brass needles.  Here, the artist, an avid archer, has used a single arrow painted in a rainbow scheme, with the arrowhead facing north.