Media Art Festival

According to the Habermas’ definition of public space, it is a place where the citizens can discuss issues without state’s interference, in other words, it is a space which functions only if there is free speech and freedom of expression.

But what if these concepts are not functioning? Where will the public space disappear? In Soviet times kitchen became a place where underground discussions were going on and the alternative thought was formed. So, kitchen became public space (if we follow the definition of Habermas).

Nowadays, media claims having the role of bringing out an alternative discourse and for being a carrier of democracy and civic values. So, media became a virtual public space. What will happen when the physical public spaces (squares, parks, etc.) collide with virtual public spaces (media art, media communication –TV, Radio, Internet, Mobile phone)?

Will they confront each other or co-exist peacefully bringing mobility and activating the urban life. The works will be displayed on digital screens in cafes and major public squares in Yerevan as well as they will be projected on buildings. This is an attempt to redefine public space, which is commercialised and overloaded with advertisements, and with the help of virtual public space (media) to create an open space for discussions and communication.

Angela Harutyunian Pressetext

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Media Art Festival
KuratorInnen: Angela Harutiunian, Eva Khachatrian

mit Laurie Hasley Brown, Tamar Shori, Agricola de Cologne, Ursula Hentschlaeger, Zelko Weiner