Art is part of humanity at ARS 06

Kiasma is preparing an extensive international exhibition of contemporary art. ARS 06 will open in January next year. Over the years, the ARS exhibitions have highlighted the prominent themes of art of their time. The theme of ARS 06 is art as an integral part of humanity.

Opening in January 2006, the ARS 06 central theme is the capacity of man for good and evil. Art is seen as a central form of human activity. Humanity is explored from various perspectives, such as emotional experiences, sensuality and sexuality. The works open up individual ways of explaining the world and reflect the social structures people have built for themselves.

Media images play a crucial role in constructing our notions of this age and the world, of others and ourselves. Today's public visual culture is dominated by fear, desperation and even horror. Art can console and provide touching experiences in our rapidly changing, insecure world. Art is part of the reality of our own time.

CONFRONTING FUNDAMENTAL QUESTIONS

Some 40 contemporary artists from all over the world will be invited to take part in the exhibition. The selections are not made on a geographical basis, however. The criterion for the choice of artists is rather the ability of their works to speak to today's audiences.

The thematic focus of the exhibition is on timeless fundamental questions, how people experience themselves and their reality. Issues of beauty and ugliness are also once again a topical question. ARS 06 forms a dynamic whole, where works on display throughout the exhibition are paired with a series of temporary projects. The projects, which are also connected to the ARS theme, are carried out in co-operation with various partners.

SEVENTH ARS EXHIBITION

ARS 06 is the seventh ARS exhibition and it will take over the entire Kiasma building. The Kiasma Theatre will be also hosting a programme on the ARS themes.

The previous ARS was held in 2001, when the theme was the multidimensionality of the globalised world and the possibility of cultural dialogue. The earlier ARS shows were held in the Ateneum building in Helsinki in 1961, 1969, 1974, 1983 and 1995. The principal aim of the exhibitions is to present international contemporary art for Finnish audiences.

Tuula Karjalainen
Museum Director

ARS 06
20 Jan–27 Aug 2006