“Dialogues in Motion” is an exhibition where attendees can explore the diversity and creativity of the skateboarding community. They are invited to become a part of it and engage in enriching exchanges.
In the first period of the two-part exhibition, the focus is on two outstanding skateboarders and artists who establish a special connection between skateboarding and art.
The work of artist Pierre Descamps falls into the genre of sculpture. Using materials such as wood or concrete, he designs and builds skateable sculptures for public spaces. Pierre is particularly drawn to abandoned places, which he enhances through his sculptures, inviting passersby to linger. While primarily intended for the skateboarding community, the sculptures are also used in other contexts within public spaces. The artworks become objects open to interpretation. In another series of work, Pierre takes on an observational role. In the photo series “Monuments,” Pierre collects various skateable architectural elements in urban spaces. Printed in offset on magazine paper, these images of anonymous sculptures appear as potential ready-mades waiting to be awakened. Selected sculptures and photographs from these two series will be showcased during the exhibition.
In an engaging dialogue, Julien Paccard’s series of paintings titled “Spots” stand out. His artistic endeavors span from video art to sound design and visual arts. The selected works from the “Spots” series can be seen as a direct translation of movement and the use of skateable objects. Following the footsteps of Christo and Jeanne-Claude, Julien wrapped various skate spots in canvas, only to later skate them. The abrasions from grinding and sliding, the marks of the wheels, etc., turned the skateboard into a tool. The abstract images offer a sense of ambiguity, leaving room for various interpretations, while familiar patterns ground viewers back in reality.
The exhibition “Dialogues in Motion” is underscored by a room-filling sound installation, a collaboration among all participants of the exhibition. Microphoned objects were skated, and the recordings served as the basis for the installation. Led by Julien Paccard, the recordings and composition came together. The sound installation will also be featured in the second period of the exhibition, as it was created in collaboration with the showcased artists and groups. It forms an acoustic bridge and engages a dialogue between the two parts of the exhibition.
In the second period of the exhibition, we are curating three FLINTA* and queer groups and their members from the Berlin skate communities. The vastness of urban space and the number of inhabitants provide the opportunity for small marginalized communities and interest groups to come together and temporarily occupy spaces and utilize architectural forms where they are largely marginalized or not accepted. This positive development is not only found in Berlin but also in other international metropolises. The communities move independently in the city yet are connected by a shared passion and similar experiences, desires, and values. This connection is represented through the showcased artworks from the Flintamentals (Skatesencia Berlin), Hera, and the Skäti Crew. The artworks explore the relationships between humans and materials at skate spots and the feelings that arise while skating. This exhibition offers the opportunity to take time to reflect on the spaces we use and to discuss how we can positively influence them.
We greatly appreciate the collaboration with all involved and hope to provide our visitors with new impressions, sharpen their perception, and raise awareness for equality. Skating and art have many faces, all of them beautiful!
References: G37 Gallery, Flintamentals, Hera, Julien Paccard, Pierre Descamps, Skäti Crew
