Exhibition Review: Hacking Habitat, Utrecht

A few weeks back I visited the 'Hacking Habitat' exhibition, set in an old prison in Utrecht. Much as the title suggests its focus centred around the technological advances of humanity and sported a large collection of politically fuelled artworks.
The space itself was a refreshing and strongly relevant location that proved to be highly inspirational to the artists involved. Each cell provided an individual experience in which the artworks became an installation - communicating with the very present memory of the buildings former use and the feeling of restriction and hierarchy this produced.

​Meanwhile the weight of this combined with the deep political standings of the works inside were lightened by the variety of work on display. From raft plans to save refugee lives to a live canary in a cage. A miniature London constructed of working circuits to films of immigrants with unusual musical talents. And the variety kept going; crossing issues, countries, confrontation and hope. For myself at times the influx of truth was too much and I found myself fighting back very genuine tears.
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However, my favourite piece and the piece which achieved a great response from all those I saw encounter it - even sparking up laughs and conversations between strangers - was by Greek artist Stefanos Tsivopoulos. Here three films showed the interlocking lives of three very different people: a scrap metal collector, an artist and an art collector. There is a desperation in each individual as they deal with their own problems despite the financial hierarchy between them. They financially support each other in an unintended cycle: That which one discards the other uses, what one creates another buys. It displays the delicate nature of economy, the incredible contrast of rich and poor and the infinitely subjective idea of 'value'. All the while pushing stereotypes to an extent of ludicrous contrast and ironic storytelling that creates an engaging and charming humour. Humour is such a rare and powerful influence and this piece, despite it's obvious depth, provided an entertaining and lighthearted opportunity for contemplation. A technique that should inspire artists to engage their viewers in new positive ways, revealing a fresh perspective without focusing on guilt or judgement.

A sad homeless hitler reminds us of the humanity behind the war.

A shadow parade dances across the walls as a wooden machine whirrs without function.

A senile woman creates origami flowers out of money and the viewer watches as she throws them away.

Notes from my day in Utrecht.

​Despite my love for this concept the message that stayed with me all three hours homeward bound was the unbelievably reliant nature of modern society on technology. And what more the ability to learn about one another remotely and our willingness to allow our privacy to be bought from us in the name of safety, sales or simply social media. This has inspired me to continue to question such things and bring this argument into my work.

As a socially engaged artist myself I have a keen interest on such works but due to the usual negativity instilled in such collections I was wary of this visit. However, I am pleased to say I was blown away, inspired and truly touched by the experience; leaving with a feeling of increased awareness and a passion for those who choose to question and improve the system.