VOLUME A: Wisdoms of Curating an Exhibition in Berlin

photo: Evelyn Bencicova

In a creative city like Berlin keeping up with the art world is a challenge most people just give up on. Where to go? There’s just so much to choose from! As we are aware of this, we wanna introduce an exhibition to you that is definitely worth a visit. Volume A will take place from the 3rd to the 5th of November in Colonia Nova, and has acclaimed contributing artists, such as Erwin Olaf and Bruce LaBruce. We had a chat with Nicolas Simoneau, art director of KALTBLUT Magazine, and photographer Manuel Moncayo about their exciting project and about curating exhibitions in Berlin.

What can we expect from VOLUME A?

A mix between established artists and new ones. Art forms that go from abstract to uncomplicated, a young view on techniques, humour, critic. Beauty in the straight forward definition, and the opposite.

artwork: Milo Matthieu

Who is exhibiting at VOLUME A and how did you choose the artists?

Erwin Olaf, Bruce LaBruce, Tim Lienhard, Lola Dupré, Tata Christiane, Attila Richard Lukacs, Paul Waak, Milo Matthieu, Gio Black Peter, Cécile Wesolowski, Francois Cadiere, Mehryl Levisse, Scott Ramsay Kyle, Spencer Chalk Levy, Ritchelly Oliveira, Philippe Fernandez, The Miss Nipple Show, Hannes&Johannes, Evelyn Bencicova, Mike Rinaldi / Michael The III, Ango The Meek Dead, Mare Nero.

We are looking for diversity, the means of expression make the exhibition rich, from embroidery to tattoo, from performance to fashion and film and so on.

Nicolas, you are KALTBLUT’s art director, and curate designers and artists for the magazine on a daily basis. What are the benefits from this work when it comes to curating a gallery exhibition?

Featuring artists constantly makes it easier to understand where things are moving to, the artists chosen for Volume A produce artworks that I was looking forward to see in real life, all in one room.

artwork: Cecile Wesolowski

Manuel, as a photographer, you have both organized exhibitions for yourself and group shows before. What do you think are the advantages of group shows versus solo exhibitions and what can emerging artists learn from them?

Art is a discipline where people often work alone. Group exhibitions are good to bring different ideas together, for the audienc,  to get a broader perspective of what is being produced.

For the artists, it brings the possibility to create and be part of an art movement.

What does Berlin have to offer as a location for exhibitions that other cities might not?

Berlin is changing, when you marry to an idea of what Berlin is you are probably outdated, the possibilities here for creation and surprise remain open.

artwork: Ritchelly Oliveira

In an environment so oversaturated with art openings and events, how can you stand out from the crowd with an exhibition?

The mix of artists that are starting with people who are already established is missing at art galleries. If you didn’t graduate from a famous art school, or do not sell your artwork for tons of money then your possibilities are limited. Art is often moved by strict concepts and its anchored to the view of few people, therefore a democratic platform stands out for itself. Even though we don’t think the idea is to stand out, but to create a platform that people can aspire to become part of, to start a movement.

What is your ultimate advice for future curators and exhibition organizers?

To be prepared for a lot of work. Curating an exhibition is not just about selecting artists, but endless hours of work.

artwork: Gio Black Peter

What was the most enlightening, amusing or surprising thing that happened to you while organizing VOLUME A?

It was surprising an unexpected that the artist we wanted to have for Volume A gave us a positive reply. It’s rare to get all what you want.

For more information on VOLUME A click here.

Diesen Artikel auf deutsch lesen.

<a href="https://www.iheartberlin.de/author/andy/" target="_self">Andy</a>

Andy

Author