Contragic Fine Arts | Ann Schomburg

12.9.22

VoidTime- A collective memory

A Cameleon shape-shifting between collective installation and its exhibition.






As most people understand and experience it, time is linear; it has a past, present, and future. However, certain philosophical, spiritual, and scientific theories challenge this conventional perspective, suggesting that time may be cyclical or even multi-dimensional.

Artistic journeys often mirror these complexities of time. Artists embark on unique paths, shaped by their past experiences, current perceptions, and future aspirations. The work "Void Time" delves deep into this intricate relationship between time and artistic evolution, probing the foundational moments when artists first recognized their creations as "art."

Interestingly, the first conscious foray into art often sets the tone for an artist's subsequent oeuvre. For some, that debut remains a landmark, unmatched in its vigor and novelty. Others might find their initial explorations a steppingstone, evolving but retaining core themes throughout their careers. Yet, a few might divert drastically, with their beginnings bearing little resemblance to their later works.

The introspective question, "Am I important enough for someone interested in my beginnings?" is universal, transcending artistic realms. At some point, everyone ponders their origins' significance and value. In art, as in life, beginnings hold profound weight, for they encapsulate a creator's raw, unfiltered essence, untouched by external influences or self-imposed restrictions.

The very act of questioning and exploring such themes reaffirms the non-linear nature of personal and artistic journeys, suggesting that while time might be linear, our experiences within it are anything but.




So many times, I heard the question: Am I important enough that someone cares about my origin?

"...am I important enough?" underscores a deep-seated human desire for validation and recognition. In the realm of art, where expression is often intimate and vulnerable, this quest for acknowledgment becomes even more pronounced. Artists, despite their external show of confidence, frequently grapple with self-doubt and seek external validation for their work and worth.

Yet, this critical self-reflection, this ongoing internal dialogue, adds layers of depth and authenticity to their creations. It is a trait common among many profound thinkers and creators. Such introspection and genuine passion often give birth to the most resonant and timeless works of art. I saw this in so many people I cherish and admire.

 

Imagine art has its own value within itself. This value isn't always quantifiable, nor should it be. By emphasizing the intrinsic worth of art and artists, devoid of exploitative logic, you're nurturing an environment where art can flourish, unburdened by commercial expectations or societal constraints.

 

The decision to protect artists and their creations from the pervasive demands of commercialization speaks volumes, especially in this era dominated by rapid consumerism and profit motives, which was my original reason for starting the Idling Gallery.

A noncommercial pop-up gallery shows up where it's needed. No one will save us if we do not save ourselves and create our own healthy environment. Such an environment can only be temporary in this world, but it not only offers artists a sanctuary for unhindered expression but also safeguards their works from the influence of external pressures in this moment. 




Artist:







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Floor plan

or  the individuals












1.9.22

Remapping Leipzig, das Netz (de)

 Eine neue Bewegung: Re*mapping Leipzig

ist eine APP, die künstlerisch Geschichte und Gegenwart der Leipziger Frauen:bewegungen vermittelt und im Stadtraum sowohl vergessene Geschichten als auch gegenwärtige Konflikte sichtbar macht.

Remapping Leipzig https://remapping-leipzig.de/ Das Netz, Ann Schomburg, 2022



Hintergrund: 

Mit Video, Audio und digitalen Comics sowie experimentellen Augmented Reality Beiträgen will Eine neue Bewegung: Re*mapping Leipzig dem kollektiven Leipziger Stadtgedächtnis auf die Sprünge helfen und weibliche Themen im Stadtraum sichtbar machen. Dabei wird deutlich wie heutige feministische Bewegungen in ihren Debatten immer wieder an historische Kämpfe anknüpfen, die mitunter auch in Leipzig initiiert wurden.

Der Rundgang durch Leipzig bringt uns u.a. von der Leipziger Innenstadt zur Hochschule für Musik und Theater, in den Friedenspark oder die ehemalige Leipziger Baumwollspinnerei sowie zur Gedenkstätte für Zwangsarbeit und die feministische Bibliothek MONAliesA. Alle Beiträge zu den Stationen entstehen gerade als experimentelle Kooperationen zwischen Autor:innen, Wissenschaftler:innen und Aktivist:innen, Sound- und Videokünstler:innen,  Performer:innen, Programmierer:innen, Grafiker:innen und Kurator:innen, die alle mit Leipzig verbunden sind.

On Equal Terms, Uferhallen





















When the curatorial duo Sophia Gräfe and Arkardij Koscheew invited me to participate in their "On Equal Terms" exhibit, they presented a 4x4 meter space for my creative exploration. Though initial talks revolved around the 'Idling Mobile' concept, potentially for documentaries or fresh works, the exhibit's scope soon expanded.

The pandemic’s confines deepened my dialogues with fellow artists. Isolated, our reflections became introspective, focusing on the passage of time and the essence of 'art'. We time traveled throughout our artistic journeys, pondering the moments when we first recognized our creations as ‘true art'.

Such profound introspection reshaped my approach. Instead of revisiting the past, I weave a tapestry of our collective artistic memories.

In response, over 50 artists united for this cause, contributing to our segment in “On Equal Terms.”