Judith Hopf and Henrik Olesen: Doors / Portikus

“Doors”, the current exhibition at the Portikus in Frankfurt / Main, Germany, shows a collaborative project developed by Judith Hopf and Henrik Olesen. “Doors offers passageways, entrances and exits, detours and cul-de-sacs, and repeatedly asks the viewer to come to a decision. The different possibilities of action – opening doors, moving (backward) in space – engender new spatial constellations.” (PR Portikus) In a similar manner, Judith Hopf and Henrik Olesen also approach the subject of spatial and personal demarcation by means of film with remakes of the Luis Bunuel film Le Fantome de la liberté (The Phantom of Liberty, 1974) in which numerous scenes play out behind doors and the film The Evil Faerie (1966) by Fluxus artist George Landow. “Doors” (March 31 – May 13, 2007), Portikus. April 13, 2007.

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Portikus is an exhibition hall for contemporary art in Frankfurt am Main. Its name derives from the surviving portico of the Stadtbibliothek (public library) from 1825 that was destroyed during World War II. As well as presenting current work from internationally renowned artists, Portikus showcases important young perspectives from around the world. In April 2006 Portikus moved to a new space, designed by Frankfurt architect Christoph Mäckler. The new building is located on a small island in the river Main at the very centre of the city. Olafur Eliasson has realized a light installation located in the building’s large glass roof. It will develop over two years and continuously change the appearance of the building. The relationship of Portikus to the city is defined by its association with the Städelschule, Academy of Fine Arts; this link allows an intense exchange between the exhibiting artists and the students of the art academy.

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