The difference between self and surrounding space, which can be understood as the relationship between the limit of one’s individual extension and the expanse of a world beyond, has been a major topic in the shifting philosophical approaches to the concept of space in the last century. In philosophy, this has resulted in the concept of an “art of interacting,” which finds a counterpart in much of the central issues in current art.

By adopting this topic and taking into consideration the context of specific institutions, such as the museum, the gallery, or the home, younger artistic positions combined questions of space with aspects of an institutional critique, which results in an investigation of their historical, psychological, and aesthetic determinations.

The artists presented in the show What a great space you have… are occupied in this field of discourse, as they relate to questions and determinations of space in general, while simultaneously are positioned into a gallery’s space of the right here, right now. Through their art they raise questions of how to deal with different kinds of existing settings or interiors. By asking: `What does it mean to take space? To find a place? To get involved with a specific space at a specific time? What does it mean concerning a specific history? And what does it mean in general to inhabit?’ these artists open up a discussion about the very act of inhabiting, interior space, and the potential of strategies towards identification. Between pathetic gesture and uncanny trials, they explore such positions and ideas. They dislocate “well known concepts” and in that way attempt different possibilities for space, interior, institution, and identity, while at the same time seek out new roles and potential of art at the current moment.

What a Great Space You Have, is an exhibition curated by Marc Glöde.

Participating artists include: Bettina Allamoda, Aziz & Cucher, Nicole Cohen, Discoteca Flaming Star, Dominique, Ellen Harvey, Karen Kimmel, Igor Mischiyev, and Albrecht Schäfer.