Theatrum mundi oeconomicum - Treuhand-politics as economic paradigm

Raising awareness for transformative events within contemporary society, artist Andreas Siekmann has focused on the intrinsic understanding of privatization processes, influences of globalisation, and the displacement of economic responsibility. The artist talk with philosopher Fedor Blaščák will take as it's point of departure the multi-part installation Pawns, Trusties and the Invisible hand (2005–2008), which reflects on the privatization of Eastern German factories through the so-called Treuhand institution after 1989. Conceived as a model for the future and regarded as a fore-runner of privatization processes throughout Eastern Europe, revisiting these developments under current economic conditions remains highly relevant. Siekmann's 'theatrum mundi oeconomicum' attempts to grasp all the world as a stage for economics. Informed by avant-garde movements of the 1920s, the artist has developed a method to transmute his analyses and research into a pictorial language, exploring the potentials of art as tool for political education. 

Siekmann (*1961 in Hamm, based in Berlin) has gained wide attention for his work through his participation at documenta 11 and 12, SkulpturProjekte Münster (2007). His most recent solo exhibitions where on view at LWL Museum Münster (2016), BAK – basis voor actuele kunst (2014), and Museum Abteiberg, Mönchengladbach (2010). He frequently collaborates with Alice Creischer and together they hold a professorship at Kunsthochschule Berlin Weißensee.

The lecture will be conducted in English.

Event is made possible with the support of the Goethe Institut Bratislava.