10sqm is the area on which the artist lives during his stay in Venice.

Due to the functionality of the materials, they can be used variably as objects.

The intention was to construct a weatherproof canvas as well as a raft that can float

on water, adapting it to local circumstances. The individual objects as well as the entire installation can be perceived as an imaginary surface that simultaneously represents a path or an undefined space.

 

The single objects are one square meter. This unit of measurement refers to the real estate sector, as it breaks down the price of a square meter. The majority of buyers acquire properties as capital investments and often rent them out to tourists. The noticeable growth in tourist numbers, in the recent years, has led to an increase in property prices and living costs. Despite the recent catastrophes pressing on the market, these investors force people to leave their homes.

The moments in which the whole city will be under water will become ever so frequent. It is admirable how strong-willed the Venetians currently are and how

they carelessly pursue their daily routines. However, this temporary resistance will not be enough to hold off a permanent flood.

Similar to the 1819 painting The Raft of Medusa, by the French romantic Théodore Géricault, which captures the moment of a brutal historical incident, the

raft/painting with its black neoprene is supposed to be an affront against the corrupt

government. It is a sign of the embittered citizens and a sign of resistance. It should recall the political scandal around the ‘acqua alta’.

 

About the artist

 

Arhun Aksakal lives and works in Frankfurt, Germany. Aksakal’s work often reflects

the social conditions in which it is produced, exploring political ideologies and the

symbols of power that are present throughout our environment.

He studied fine arts at Kunsthochschule Kassel in the class of Andrea Büttner and

Pauline Curnier Jardin. Since 2020 Aksakal studies at Städelschule, Frankfurt/Main

in the class of Willem de Rooij.

 

 

10qm exhibithion view

 

 

10qm exhibition view

 

 

10qm new