Book XLV
Kunstpunt, Groningen NL
02.07.2023
Proposal
In response to the past Open Call The Wall#3 by Kunstpunt, I proposed a conceptual approach to meaningfully utilize the wall at Kunstpunt. My proposal went beyond conventional art forms and was twofold. I aimed to use the wall to draw attention to contemporary issues and to highlight the complex role of art in our society. In line with the intention of the open call, my proposal was an experiment in which I challenged myself, Kunstpunt, and the audience.
Rather than using the available budget to create a physical art expression on the wall, I suggested donating the budget of Open Call The Wall#3 to an organization dedicated to refugees who were confronted with literal and figurative walls and were left to their own devices.
Although this idea may seem sympathetic and generous at first glance, it raises a series of complex and ethical questions. First and foremost, it's important to consider the donation itself, including how it should take place and which organization will receive the money. It's also important to determine an appropriate amount: the entire budget or the remaining amount after deducting expenses, and what expenses are involved?
Furthermore, it's important to contemplate what the audience will witness during the working period and how a conversation can be initiated about it. Essential to this is reflecting on Kunstpunt's role in this context: are they merely facilitating or do they also take an active (substantive) role? In either case, how and why? Additionally, it's crucial to conduct a thorough assessment of the potential self-interest of both myself and Kunstpunt in this donation. Is the idea truly virtuous? Isn't it somewhat hypocritical? Can the concept truly bear the 'weight' of the idea? Should art even have a role in political or crisis issues? Can artworks accomplish more than just creating awareness or initiating discussions? Often, we hear these clichés when an artist exposes or supposedly 'questions' something.
Within the context and duration of the Open Call The Wall#3, my aim was to create an environment where questions and doubts could thrive. My complete focus would be directed towards exploring the complexity of the donation within the context of the wall at Kunstpunt and understanding its potential implications. Throughout this period, I hoped to find answers to numerous questions together with the audience, while also maintaining my own credibility and integrity within the project.
The proposal was not executed.