August 22, 2019, 10 am – 2 pm
Many thanks to the artist Raul Walch for his lecture Art in the public sphere in times of political resentment and discussing the works of our participants within the Studio Program at BAI | Berlin Artist Residency, Art School & Arts Incubator.
“Since starting my education in sculpture at the Art Academy Weißensee, and subsequently at IFREX, the Institute for Spatial Experiments in Berlin, it has been an essential aspect of my work to exhibit not only in conventional exhibition spaces, but to specifically explore the public sphere. This unsteady, ever-changing space is constantly affected and shaped by political circumstances and social conditions.
Beyond Berlin, the topic of public space is at the centre of public debate due to growing development and privatization in metropolitan areas. Political opinions and attitudes are increasingly being taken to the streets where polemical debates and populist opinion create a charged and aggressive mood that spreads beyond the boundaries of social networks. As a result, existing social resentments are fuelled and the freedom of art is brought into question.
In light of this increasing radicalization of individuals and social groups, the practice of artistic freedom in public space is of growing importance. Art shapes the coexistence of society and stimulates debate. What forms can these debates take on and how can they permeate artistic work?” (Text by courtesy of Raul Walch)
Raul Walch (1980) crosses the boundaries of artistic genres in his broad and inventive practise. He works as a sculptor and conceptual artist but also slips easily into the roll of an investigator or becomes part of a performance. His focus is on creating an unconventional approach to social reality, often unexpectedly including observers in the process. Walch’s playful works and actions are not limited to questioning or participation. Instead, he creates ephemeral and largely site-specific interventions that respond to different environments around the world.
More information on the Raul Walch Website.
