For ages, people have marked boundaries: we dig ditches in pastures, put up fences around gardens, and erect barriers along national borders to keep ‘strangers’ out. Not just for ourselves, but also for animals, we decide where they belong. Some we breed and consume, others we carefully avoid, and some we cherish as members of the family.
In Grensverleggers (Pushing Boundaries), curator Roísín Douglas brings together artists who explore, question, and shift the boundaries between humans, animals, and landscapes. In her drawings, Ai Ozaki examines how her body relates to all other living beings — from humans and animals to microorganisms. Xandra van der Eijk uses her art to expose the impact of pollution and ecological disruption, revealing how human actions disturb the natural balance. In a video installation, Deirdre O’Mahony sheds light on the complex issues surrounding agriculture, food production, and consumption in the context of the climate crisis. She reflects on the relationship between landscape and ecological sustainability, and responds to recurring conflicts over land use and regulation.
Especially for this exhibition, Amber Veel, Elena Khurtova, and Anika Schwarzlose are developing new works commissioned by VHDG, inspired by the Frisian soil. Amber Veel uses various techniques and raw materials to create a landscape on the skin of an animal that once belonged to the same natural environment. She applies centuries-old tanning techniques combined with natural elements from the Frisian landscape. Khurtova and Schwarzlose build on their project Residue and create new work focused on the soil of Leeuwarden Air Base — a tangible archive of conflict and violence.
The ground beneath our feet is a source of life, but also a battleground of exploitation, regulation, and conflict. Once land is turned into property, it becomes a subject of deliberation. But are all voices being heard in this process? Who is unable to speak out loud?
Grensverleggers can be seen at art initiative VHDG from June 14 to August 24 at ’t Naauw 6–8. Throughout the duration of the exhibition, an engaging public program will be offered, featuring free art activities for all ages, in collaboration with artist Sophie Krier (Resident of the VHDG Local program).
Grensverleggers is part of Paradys by Arcadia.
Poster by Jemin Kim
