“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” is a famous quote by Pablo Picasso. Then, how should we perceive art? What is the relationship between art and everyday life? On 12 October 2017, the International Art Seminar on “Contemporary Art in Germany Now” was held in CC323.
Mr Rolf Hinterecker from Cologne and Mr Gerhard Lang from Kassel who are are both German Video and Performance Artists attended the seminar. Both artists shared their experiences while they led attendees on an artistic journey.
Rolf Hinterecker speaking with students
Art needs to be resonant, communicative and spread the artist’s ideas. Rolf Hinterecker introduced the artist organisation, ‘PAErsche’, which is different from typical artist organisations because it is nomadic and has no fixed abode. This gives members more independence and freedom. The team brings a steady stream of inspiration to members.
Rolf Hinterecker said that they never had much money, but even that gives them freedom to decide which projects they want to do. Some students in the audience were surprised at this, so Rolf Hinterecker explained that “Germany has expert art schools. Sometimes we [members] go there to teach or do something else to maintain and support the organisation.”
Gerhard Lang presenting at the event
Many students were in attendance
During the seminar, Mr Gerhard Lang shared his three productions and his creation method. His artistic method involves looking more deeply into perception and cultural processes. He enjoys making art based on the contrast between man and the landscape. He is able to capture these ideas and present them in his art in a professional yet playful way.
Gerhard Lang answers a student's question
The purpose of this International Art Seminar was to exchange up-to-date concepts and art practices in the field of contemporary art, especially the highlights in ‘Documenta 14’ from Germany. This event was organised and supported by the Media Art and Design (MAD) programme of the Division of Culture and Creativity (DCC).
The event also explored and nourished the Zhuhai-China cultural image, ideology and creativity. One student from the Culture, Creativity and Management programme said she was touched that she could attend such an inspirational event on campus.
Reporter/Photographer: Evelyn Zhou
Editors: Samantha Burns, Deen He
(from MPRO)
