Exhibition Hall Kunsthaus Kannen
2x2 Forum for European Outsider Art
On Sunday 9th October, the 2x2 Forum for Outsider Art came to an end. Over the period of four days, 22 studios, galleries and museums from around Europe gathered at the Kunsthaus Kannen in Münster to display their work with Outsider Art and discuss the subject further. Within the space of 2x2 meters, each exhibitor presented a selection of works by their artists. These ranged from paintings and scultpure, to photographs and video art. Representatives of the exhibitors were also available throughout the day to explain their work to visitors of the forum.
Along with the art fair which took place in the Kunsthaus' gallery space, the participants of the forum also took part in a series of lectures, a panel discussion and group discussions. These explored the complex topic of Outsider Art's position in the present-day art scene. Participants were offered a chance to present their own opinions and experiences in this line of work. Particularly the group discussions brought to light the highly unique experience which each studio has with its artists. In these discussions, issues such as the role of professional artists in teaching Outsider Art studios, the potential for the use of new media such as film and photography in Outsider Art, and finally the expansion of this genre beyond the psychiatry were all brought up. Needless to say that the challenges associated with each of these were discussed in an intimate and friendly atmosphere.
The Kunsthaus Kannen sends out many thanks to all the participants and visitors of this forum. It is a relatively new tradition, but one which we feel must be upheld. Such a platform is a crucial tool for communication in this field - it brings together people working across the entire field, both academics and practitioners.
Press Reviews
Münsterische Zeitung 08. October
Westfälische Nachrichten 04. October
Westfälische Nachrichten 08. October