Curator/coordinator of the Special Art Section of Austrian oil and gas company OMV at the VIENNAFAIR.
Messe Wien,Vienna, Austria
In the context of this year's OMV special project 'DIYALOG: New Energies,' we have broadened our focus to explore the contemporary art scenes of Romania, Turkey, and Kazakhstan. The historical and current contexts of art development vary among the three countries. While Romania underwent a transformation in its art scene after the fall of the Iron Curtain, establishing a vibrant artistic community with international recognition, Kazakhstan faced challenges in the absence of substantial support, and with the emergence of a new generation of globally educated artists, curators, and managers, there's a renewed vigor in the Kazakh art scene, necessitating a reevaluation of past experiences and the emergence of new artistic institutions. Turkey experienced significant cultural shifts since the mid-80s, leading to the rise of its art scene. The success of Turkish contemporary art, evident in international acclaim and domestic interest, reflects a thriving art community that actively supports, evaluates, and funds contemporary art practices. This project emphasizes non-profit art spaces and young galleries known for their flexible structures, allowing them to adapt quickly and experiment with innovative ideas. The OMV project "DIYALOG: New Energies" features 58 artists from six organizations, each offering unique perspectives on philosophical, sociopolitical, and historical themes, providing insight into the local situations and artistic perspectives of each country. This project is complemented by the Info Zone, providing a comprehensive view of activities in Romania, Turkey, and Kazakhstan, while also fostering a platform for new networks and discussions.
