Matej Andraz Vogrinčič

‘Normally the space is first and then the idea will come with the space. It did not happen yet that I had an idea and then I was searching for the space…’ (letter, 9 September 2005).

Although this is essentially an illustrative rather than a transformative process, the quality of the interpretation of place provided by the artist (the sensitivity and detailed elaboration involved) can still resonate with the inhabitants of the place to such an extent as to produce change in the collective imagination.

The artist typically starts by selecting a site that is ‘central’ in location but ‘peripheral’ in the consciousness of local people. His aim in reclaiming or redeeming this site is simply to show local people something about themselves that they may have forgotten or suppressed. (And this is often of interest to people who are not local…) The research involved is empathic, atmospheric, rather than literal; and the production process is normally labour-intensive (the thousands of hours of work represent a kind of devotional exercise) and involves many helpers and collaborators in the creation of a living relationship with the work.

Untitled, 2006
Installation
Commissioned by Liverpool Biennial 2006

SUPPORTED BY

Northwest Regional Development agency
Ministry of Culture Slovenia
Visiting Arts
Bunker Productions