HMKV Video of the Month celebrates its first birthday!
The Video of the Month is a series of screenings initiated a year ago by Hartware MedienKunstVerein (HMKV) to show exciting new video work around topical subjects. As it celebrates its first anniversary, we felt it was time to reflect on the year past and asked visitors, scientists, cultural workers and artists people for their assessment.
Inke Arns, the HMKV’s Artistic Director, inventor of the series, concludes:
‘Initially we were looking for a new format that would enable us to react more quickly on contemporary issues, without each time having to put together a whole show. The video screenings allow audiences to discover a new video work by an international artist on a monthly basis. I visit a lot of exhibitions and see many more interesting works than the HMKV is able to include in its exhibitions, so this kind of presentation is a great outlet. And it keeps me on my toes to find good new work!’
// More thoughts on the series
‘Christoph Faulhaber, “Mister Security”, awaits visitors at the end of the escalator on the third floor of the Dortmunder U building. What’s he doing there? He’s observing. He’s in charge of security. He’s surveilling. Faulhaber, the constant performer of the global security system, now also performs on video, in front of the HMKV with its heavy doors. And when you sit in the potentially public space of Dortmunder U and watch the Video of the Month with headphones on, you can’t help but look over your shoulder to try and spot the CCTV cameras.”
Yana Thönnes, Info trainer at HMKV,on the Video of the Month of November 2014
‘For me the Video of the Month works like a flashlight, as it lets you zoom into a given topic and makes you think. And it gets to the point quickly – in keeping with the way communication functions today’, says
Lukas Wekerle, a business student from Dortmund
‘I find it interesting to see how contemporary developments are reflected through the Video of the Month. It’s a kind of barometer for what is currently happening in the social, political, economic and cultural spheres.’
Caroline Becker, a visitor from Essen
‘the world is all about images, and images are the world. everyone makes images, but no one does the sorting. therefore, HMKV, you are doing the right and necessary thing.’
musician, composer and filmmaker Christian von Borries
The Video of the Month provides a formidable and timely possibility to attract attention to young artists outside the framework of exhibitions.’
Prof. Peter Lynen, Director of the Centre for International Arts Management (CIAM)and former Chancellor of the Düsseldorf Academy of Art
‘The Video of the Month is a great opportunity to give visitors a quick glimpse into the HMKV’s work, particularly those who are hesitant or doubtful. The selection of videos reflects the diversity of our exhibitions.’
Linda Richards, Info trainer at HMKV
Free entrance