2011 » Poland » Architecture Section

Liberated Energy

Our understanding of theatrical architecture is influenced by the concept of the theatralisation of the urban space. We do not treat architecture as a building, but rather as a space – broadly understood – in which people coexist and build relations with one another. Apart from the scheme of theatralisation, in which these events take place, what is interesting is the sole fact of art being present within the urban space. Independently of the artists’ intentions, their works coexist with other urban objects and constitute a common structure within the urban organism. Four projects will be presented as elements of the urban space influencing its logic and shape. The presented projects will be analysed with the help of the methodology of urban sociology. We will examine their potential and usefulness for Varsovians (all the projects are located in Warsaw). Can art in public space help to draw greater attention to the topic of exclusion, of cultural taboos, towards hidden, forgotten and thorny questions? Do they influence residents’ opinions, and if so – how? Can they constitute a form of therapy for them? Are they able to familiarise them with otherness? The projects are examined with a view towards their effect and real impact. This is possible because they function permanently within the public space as real objects or as singular situations that have left a permanent mark. In both cases, they are broadly discussed in public forums and bounce back, asking to be re-read and influencing the city and its inhabitants. This radiating power of the projects seems to constitute a real factor that can be examined and measured with the use of sociological instruments.

General Comissioner: Meciej Nowak Curator: Ewa Machnio, Agata Skwarczyńska Coordinator nad producer: Anna Galas Designer of exposition: Ewa Machnio, Agata Skwarczyńska