Guggenheim. Full abstraction
This exhibition took place from 19.10.2016 to 12.02.2017 at ING Art Center
This exhibition traced the origins and development of Abstract Art on both sides of the Atlantic in the 1940s to 1960s, through masterpieces from two museums founded by the American collectors Solomon R. and Peggy Guggenheim.
Abstract Art is a concept used in many different contexts. This exhibition focused on its true meaning, how and why it arose and how it spread in the United States and Europe. The artworks told that story as well as the stories of their unusual collectors, each of whom in turn contributed to the recognition of this artistic movement.
Abstraction is an exciting standpoint adopted by the artist, a direct way to give expression to feelings and visions. It is related to colour, gestures, materials and a philosophy of life.
For the visitor, viewing this style of art demanded a particular mode of entering into the works in order to see them with “empathy”. This was the reason for the specific mise-en-scène, a decor with colourful fabrics intended to take the visitor away from the hustle and bustle of today’s society and placed him or her within an ethereal setting, face to face with the masterpieces.