Just over 7 years ago I left the UK to explore Europe, chasing as much international culture, particularly artwork, as I could. Choosing to encompass visits to Vienna Contemporary Art fair and Amsterdam Art Fair between other countries because – hay, they sounded like exciting ways to discover art from around the world. I was rather naive to the commercial premise of such events, as a 19year old developing artist and not a potential collector- I’m not the primary target audience art fairs are aimed at; yet still delighted to experience this most wonderful outcome. However I did come away with the opportunity to work in the bullseye of Europe at ‘Volta 6′ art fair in Basel. Thrilled to experience this culmination of so many nationalities, ideas and expressions, that was invigorating, insightful and positive. As I am currently enjoying many discussions about international relations whilst working at VOLTA12, June 13 – 18, 2016; It draws me to reflect on my first significant discovery at an art fair back in 09; fittingly the artwork ‘Entropa’ by Czech artist David Cerný, (needless to say I did’t buy it but I did buy into it) subtitled “Stereotypes are barriers to be demolished” – this work could not resonate more now.
The work ‘Entropa’ was made to comment on the European Union, proposed as a collaborative project with an artist from each country, this was ultimately a hoax as a reflection on such collaboration… and played out as a Monty Python style artwork. As much as the title plays on EU/Entropy from one angle, it can also promote a view of ‘A Europe Without Barriers’. Heartened by the ability of artwork/world to spread and facilitate conversations and such expressions, ideas and emotions, check it out…
(I’ll return to Glasgow, UK, Europe 23rd June – to vote #Remain)