The relationship between contemporary art and club culture has historically been closely intertwined, even more so now with nightlife in a state limbo, clubs are (actively) exploring  avenues for repurposing themselves. The iconic dance club Berghain has become an art space, displaying works by sought-after artists.

While it is evident that clubs can become cultural venues, the inverse question emerges – what can art spaces learn from these hedonistic playgrounds? Can they obtain the same laissez-faire practices of techno meccas to liberate their visitors from all temporal awareness to truly open up for the new experiences?

What is it about clubbing that captivates partygoers and lures them back for more?

Serving as an ambiguous catalyst, a nightclub allows us to give up and surrender, to partake in a process, which can be dually demoralising and uplifting, manifesting it’s degrading aspects while presenting a place for growth.

Transforming the premises of the gallery into an ephemeral yet timeless space, the exhibition “Surrender” encapsulates the feeling of escapism in an attempt to achieve personal and collective pleasure.

Curated by Elīna Drāke and Žanete Liekīte
Exhibition design by Rūdolfs Štamers
Graphic design by Sabīne Vernere

Artists: Karlīna Mežecka (LV), Miķelis Mūrnieks (LV), Rūdolfs Štamers (LV), Augusts Zariņš (LV), Anna Ditscherlein (DE),  Gyopár Liksay (HU), Theresa Tuffner (DE), Josef Panda (DE),  Ilaria Restivo (IT)

July 8 – August 20, 2021
The Art Academy of Latvia experimental space PILOT
(Vāgnera street 3, Riga)

Supported by State Culture Capital Foundation of Latvia

This exhibition is part of the EU4ART collaboration project between Hungarian University of Fine Arts, Dresden Academy of Fine Arts, Academy of Fine Arts of Rome and Art Academy of Latvia.

Entrance is free of charge; the space is open from 12:00 to 18:00 on Tuesdays through Saturday.