Ai Weiwei, Vito Acconci
Para Site Art Space presents a collaborative new project by Acconci Studio and Ai Weiwei. This is the first time that both artists create a work together, and for this purpose they have been invited by Para Site Art Space to use Hong Kong as the background of this exciting experience.
This exhibition engages two artists/architects with parallel trajectories, having both started from an interest in performance, and moved later on to architecture. These “touching points” in both of them act as common ground to develop a new body of works. This innovative approach to exhibition making can only be practiced at an organization like Para Site Art Space that operates independently without the constraints of larger organizations. Both artists have never met before, although they mutually admire each other, making this cooperative process a sort of “blind date” for the artists. The project transforms the gallery space into a 3D grid, where both studios develop a work in progress. The installation is in constant mutation and accumulation during the two months that it is open to the public. New works, models, drawings and various materials are added through the period of the exhibition, and it is the result of the ongoing discussion between Ai Weiwei, Vito Acconci and their studios. The result is a multilayered installation that defies orthodox definitions and approaches. The installation includes among other elements a 12-channel sound installation designed by Acconci Studio, 128 photographs selected/shot by Ai Weiwei, architectural models and texts. Ai Weiwei has said the following about this project: “The collaboration with Vito Acconci at Parasite Art Space is an effort in figuring out ways to collaborate, ways (of) defining the actual process of working together. Through the development of a gallery project we are to think the formation of a city”. As part of the project a series of conversations take place during the exhibition period. The public is invited to participate in these conversations.
The exhibition is curated by Alvaro Rodriguez Fominaya.
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More materials are available to view on site at Para Site.
Click here to see a full inventory of all archive materials and contact us at archive@para-site.art for enquiries, to request an appointment to view materials, and for archival materials donations.
The Archive Project is financially supported by the Project Grant of the Hong Kong Arts Development Council.
about the artists
Vito Acconci
Vito Acconci started writing in the 60s poetry in New York. In 1967 he founded the influential 0 to 9 magazine. He performed his Following Pieces in 1969. Throughout his career, text has been playing a pivotal role in his works. Performances were documented, filmed and registered as part of this process. In the 70s Vito Acconci’s work explored the use of public space in order to search for a wider social context. In 1988 he founded Acconci Studio, an architectural practice that included architects and artists working under this framework. Acconci Studio works towards the development of public commissions constructing a critique of architecture and public space.
Ai Weiwei
Ai Weiwei is widely recognized as one of the most influential artists from his generation. He has engaged in design, architecture, curating, writing and publishing. Ai Weiwei states “I’m my own readymade”, with reference to Marcel Duchamp. He operates with FAKE Design, his own company and works within a team. His political activism has made him a household name.
related events
Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday until Jul 4, 2010
9:00am
Ai Weiwei and Acconci Studio: Conversation in Progress
Real-time conversation takes place through Skype and accessible only from Para Site Art Space. A DVD with the conversation between Vito Acconci and Ai Weiwei is available at Asia Art Archive.
Apr 12, 2010
Hong Kong Arts Centre
Vito Acconci + Ai Weiwei: Artists in Conversation
Co-presented by Asia Art Archive and Para Site Art Space
