The Inaugral Terran Decennial Festival of Modern Art

[matty.berry]

Greetings from Solentia,

The Supreme President of Solentia has announced that the Inaugural Terran Decennial Festival of Modern Art is to take place in 3305

THE INDENPENDENT
Vision for biggest art festival in the world to set Solentia on road to recovery...
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We believe that this will be the biggest Festival of the Arts to have ever taken place within Terra. As such we are looking for talented artists within your nation who may wish to feature as an international artist during the festival. We have 3 spaces for such exhibitors. We have a relaxed culture within Solentia with liberal social attitudes. As such it is an ideal environment for the Arts to flourish. If you have an artist within your nation who you wish to nominate as an exhibitor and want to raise the profile of your nation / party, then please provide us with the following information

1 – Artists name, age, background
2 – Where (if) the artist formally studied
3 – What type of art he / she produces?
4 – What themes feature within the artists work?
5 – What messages, political or social, does the artist attempt to convey within his / her work
6 – Any other interesting facts / previous scandals regarding the artist or his / her works

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Contact at the Liberal Party, Solentia for more information, we hope you will join us. Also you may wish to join our new organisation which aims to promote the Arts throughout Terra – The International Movement for the Arts.
Madeleine Clarke,
Senate Warden

OOC: If your artists is successful all we would need you to do is produce a short article for one of our daily newspapers featuring a story about the exhibition and any antics he or she is involved in and any controversy this creates . Don’t forget art is a great way of conveying subliminal political messages

[Siggon Kristov]

Foreign Minister, Yuri Kuznetsov, criticized the event:

Some Beluzian leaders would never consider entering an "art" festival hosted by persons who have no respect for our own culture. This festival is too politicized, and we will not take part in it.

I will quote the Solentian newspaper:

Madeleine Clarke believes that news of the Decennial will give the Liberals a much needed boast especially among their core vote of intellectuals.

Partisan tribalism was even displayed in the Liberal Party's invitation, that was sent to us. We were referred to as a "party" and not a family. We never took apology for the "oversight" because we expect the same thing to happen at the festival; ignorant cultural biases will cause major oversights.

We do support the idea of such a festival; we support what the Liberal Party claims to want to achieve.
We do not, however, believe their claims.

The former monarch, Count Kristov I, also had something to say.

Beluzia perceives cultural rejection by the incumbent Solentian government; we feel forced to boycott the event.

Despite not holding the throne, he still has massive influence in Beluzia. The incumbent High Count, Nick Williams, is a close ally of the former monarch. Both aristocrats are in favour of a boycott of the event, as they both support a bill which declares such a stance.

Analysts in Beluzia are even questioning Solentian support for the event. The Supreme President of Solentia has announced that the Inaugural Terran Decennial Festival of Modern Art is to take place in 3305, but how is he sure he will still be in office? Elections are constitutionally due in June 3304. Why does he assume the power to host such an event? To date (January 3303), no bill has been passed to approve the hosting of the event. A bill has been created, but it has not been passed yet; at the specific time the Count checked (in January), the bill wasn't even set to vote.

[matty.berry]

For your information one of the confirmed exhibitors at the Decennial

the i ~ Solentian culture in brief, by THE INDEPENDENT
June 3303

Mordusian Bard of humble origins confirmed as exhibitor for the Decennial...

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[emerick Sale]

Press Release From The Nation Of United Jakania

The United Jakania foreign affairs, Laura Sharp, met with the president to discuss the issues facing the designated nation who proposes this event. After the meeting President Emerick Won announce to the press not to allow the current ambassador artist involve in this Event unless laws have being passed by designated nation. The current president says:

We would love to be part of this event but we need a prove at the designated nation that laws have being passed to approved this event. If we allow our ambassador to be involve in this unapproved event by the designated Nation, the outcome will not be fruitful. An unapproved event will put our nation at jeopardy and even our ambassador at risk. However we will love to extend this event till laws have being passed and that there is no riots upon the designated nation. The People of United Jakania Love to be safe and secure.

After president Won announces this statement the people of United Jakania felt Relieve.

[Siggon Kristov]

Foreign Minister Kuznetsov:

Beluzia would appreciate if President Won joined us in boycotting the event. It is nothing but a political tool of the governing party of Solentia. This is more about politics than people; it is more about the party than the nation.

[matty.berry]

ART - I
International Art Festival of Solentia
December 3305 to June 3306

@ Halion City, Orame
Laughing Ones Head Off
by Margret Torvello, Solentia

Biography
Margret Torvello was born 3259 on the outskirts of Nysae city, Tesuhen. Her mother, a musician and devout follower of a little known eastern religion, raised her alone with a little help from her own parents. Nothing has ever been made public about the identity of the artist’s father but it is thought that he was not around as the young Margret grew up. Aged 23 Torvello graduated from the conservative Tesuhen Sate University and began a teaching career in a private school run by her mother’s religious sect. Throughout the 3280’s she suffered from extreme depression and left the teaching profession 3286 due to ill health. Torvello cited the stifling discipline and the school and her own upbringing, feeling somewhat removed and distant from her family. Two years later she made a decision that that would transform her life beyond recognition.

Having sold most of her possessions she travelled the countryside, walking most of the time and occasionally accepting rides from strangers. She knows not how, and she knows not where but she ended up in the ‘home’ of one she simply refers to as Nun. It is not known how, but it was Nun who taught Torvello the ‘awesome’ power of laughter. From that moment she was transformed and determined to share her new found knowledge with all who would listen. When she had told all would listen she began to paint laughter. Her early work was soon recognised as special by collectors in Tesuhen State and eventually throughout Solentia. In 3290 the artist accepted an offer of residence at Harlion University. From there on her career moved from strength to strength. Laughter became the dominant theme of her work and she expanded into sculpture, video and installation art. In addition to her art, or as she sees it an extension, she now holds laughter classes – a mixture of art and therapy when attendees are induced into a state of hysterical laughter. In such classes the artist typically uses various colour themes, smells, sounds, as well as mild hypnosis and naturally occurring substances to induce a state of mass laughter upon participants. The so called classes are popular among over worked, time poor city dwellers. The artists became a household name last year when it was revealed Madeleine Clarke, Senate Warden was a regular attendee of Torvello’s classes.

Gallery

Laughing Ones Head Off 3292

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In this painting Torvello uses a common play on words and asks the questions: 'can one really laugh ones head off?' 'Would it really be funny if one did laugh ones head off?' 'Would one keep on laughing even if ones head had been laughed off?'

As the observer admires the painting often hysterical laughter will come upon him. The observer connects with the character and the hilarity of the situation. During this laughter the observer himself becomes a part of the art, his laughter will often then spread to others who are passing by. Even those of a conservative disposition are often drawn into the communal laughter. After half an hour or so the condition usually subsides and the observer goes about his business. However this painting can spark flash backs for up to 6 days after viewing. The observer becomes a participant in the art again, even though he may be miles away, perhaps in a foreign land. Thus the artist reminds us that all humanity all are joined by laughter.

Laughing Devils 3293

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This painting reminds us of the potential negative connection to laughter. 'Is all laughter good?' 'What if we are laughing for the wrong reasons?' Torvello urges the observer to lay aside such questions and view the art for what it is and share in the joy.

Although the phenomenon of laughter does not overtake all who view this work, still in a significant minority it does. When it does strike the observer in this case it is more pronounced. In the immediate aftermath participants have reported sickness and head ache lasting hours and even days after the event. However they also report a longer term process of wellness occurring, particularly in those who are suffering depression. In this way the observer can look at the devils as their own and laugh them away, making them powerless to influence their life any longer.

Laughing Bronze Men 3305

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This sculpture was specially commissioned for the Decennial Art Festival and is sighted in the gardens of the Presidential Palace. The work consists of 12 (the perfect number) bronze sculptures of naked figures. Observers are encouraged to interact with the men, talking and touching them. Every so often a voice can be heard speaking from within one of the creations. It has even been reported that the 'men' have on occasions laughed with the crowds. This has never been scientifically verified and the artist does not make such claims, although up to half a dozen observers are said to have witnessed the phenomenon jointly. It is more likely that it is in their own state of hysterical laughter that their minds collectively draw them into the same shared experience.

The figures resemble primeval man which also points to the fact that laughter is the oldest language and we share it with our ancestors from the beginning of time.

Laughter Yoga ~ Demonstration and Participation ~ every Monday evening throughout the Decennial
The classes will be led each week by Margret Torvello and will consist of exercises, meditation, visualisation, lighting effects, mild hypnosis and the consumption of hallucinogenic naturally occurring substances. The aim of the class is for each participant to experience the phenomenon of unrestrained, inhibited, uncontrollable hysterical laughter. In previous such events more than 95% of attendees experience the desired effects. Your life may be changed for the better by attending this event...

[Siggon Kristov]

Beluzian Foreign Minister, Kuzetsov, still criticizes the event:

It's a clear attempt of hypnosis. Culture should be used to strengthen the whole idea of "the people" but here, it's just a tool used to control the people instead.

Our conclusions are all coming together now; this "festival" is just a political tool to restore faith in the ignorant and biased leaders of the proposing party.

[socrev]

ART - I
International Art Festival of Solentia
December 3305 to June 3306

@ Clezomene, Tesuhen
The Size and Shape of a Melting Pot
by Roberta Teri Thema, Free Republic of Mordusia

Biography
Roberta Teri Thema was born in 3248. She was born in Anna's Ogen, Sayoon, in the north of Mordusia. Her parents caught fish for a living. While learning the trade, Thema heard stories and songs of the fishermen and women, and proceeded to embellish them. By the age of 7 she was supplementing her family's income through her public performances in and around her home town. By the time she was 16, she was well known in her region and received a rare public scholarship to Academy for Advanced Art and Theater, a prestigious private art school in Mordusia's capital. She mastered the art of storytelling, bardery and oral history, and soon became the leading Bard in the Nation, successfully defending her claim in a number of "Bard Offs" which were held at the time between the schools. She now makes her living as a member of the faculty at her alma mater, and she tours the country giving performances as part of various privately endowed national festivals in Mordusia.

During her productive adult life, she mastered the skill of aural lighting, which is used, rather than photos, to illustrate her stories about National History. The technique involves the setting and movement of various shades of light carefully choreographed to induce a more limited but carefully controlled set of emotions in the audience. The lighting effect produces a common impression of her work in the audience and highlights key points, to create a common memory of the program among all those who attend. She herself claims it to be the effect of the aural lighting which accompanies her stories. This adds another layer to what would otherwise be a somewhat standard series of songs, speeches, and re-enactments of various points in Mordusia's history, and culture. It almost makes one feel that they are observing the events first hand. Repeat audiences are common: most people have seen her various performances more than one time a piece. All are certainly welcome to come as often as they wish.
Gallery

The History of a Country December 3305, Three Exhibitions a week
Event 1 will be a Presentation of the troubled history of Mordusia through unification. Mordusia's Long history has been one where the frustrated aims of our nation have finally come to fruition. At last, neutrality and political stability reign in Mordusia, but it was not always that way.


The Songs of a People, January 3306, Three Exhibitions a week
Event 2 will be a selection of traditional Mordusian Songs. Mordusia boarders two seas, and four of our five regions have coasts. Our connection to the sea, while underplayed, is still very strong. And sailors often have some of the better songs in our traditional litany. Thema will offer a selection of some of our better tunes.


The Values of a Nation, February 3306, Friday Evenings
Event 3 will be a Dramatic interpretation of Mordusian Virtues and Values. Included are a discussion of the Unique Mordusian State Church, the Society of Brethren as well as a rosetta stone, so to speak of the various languages and dialects spoken throughout Mordusia


The Dances of a Society, March-April 3306, Friday Evenings, with free lessons daily
Event 4 will be a showcase of traditional dances from the various regions and subregions of Mordusia. Given our national heritage as a mixing pot between the Cultures to our south and those to our north and west, Mordusia has a number of influences in our own folk dance which makes our ways at the same time unique and familiar to those around us.


The Future of a Republic, May 3306, First and Third Mondays, June First and Third Mondays
Event 5 will be a lecturette on Mordusian Priorities for the future. Mordusia is known as a land of neutrality, and yet there is a strong current of change in the country which promotes the advancement of internationalism in Mordusia. As Mordusia goes out to the world to share our values and virtues, we also invite the world to come to see us. Thema will offer a taste of what the Republic has to offer as that process unfolds.


Special Lecture Series- The Artistry of Aural Lighting, Theatrical Studies Department at the University, Spring 3306
Thema will offer courses in aural lighting, set design efficiency and such to Solentian Students during Spring Semester, 3306 for the University. The course will include hands on tech study in advanced theater design, and will touch on the theory of lighting montage, which minimized the need for set, costume and makeup by offering a lighting compliment on the audience itself. This advanced theory is envisioned as Senior seminar/ Grad Seminar, and course tuition will be subsidized by Thema's university, the Academy for Advanced Art and Theater in Mordusia.

[Alain Delors]

ART - I
International Art Festival of Solentia
December 3305 to June 3306

@ Calydon, Nukeya
Real.Freedom
by Francois de Beaufort, Dranland

Biography
Francois de Beaufort, who was born in Iglesia Mayor in 3257, studied Arts at the famous First Private Dranian University. During his studies, he began to produce first pieces of art, predominately photorealistic paintings and abstract sculptures. In 3280, he began to get involved in politics by becoming a member of the City Council of Iglesia Mayor. As a councillor, he tried to raise awareness for cultural projects and arts. In the same year, he also spoke out for more democracy in Dranland and criticized the monarchist system. He caused turmoil with his project at the peak of the discussion surrounding the monarchy, when he covered the St. Svorad Cathedral (the place where the Dranish monarchs get crowned) with a huge white coat , to criticize the then ruling House of Santiago and its alleged stifling effect on the Dranish society. The project boosted his popularity, however it was discussed controversially. In 3294, he was awarded the National Medal for Merits to the Dranish Culture by Lord Chancellor Larissa LeCoultre. He is today considered one of the most influential figures in the cultural sphere of the nation.

Gallery

A Semblance of Reality, 3276
In his early series of paintings, Mr. de Beaufort first dealt with the topic of reality, which he would also embrace in later works, combining it with political messages. In this photorealistic painting, he raises the question what reality actually is, or if there are only different types of illusion.

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A Breath of Freedom, 3279

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With his 3279 work, Beaufort takes a stance against the monarchy and for the Dranish republican movement, saying that the feudal system is stifling to freedom and tolerance. However, most people are still reluctant to speak out openly against the monarchy. With these rather sinister sculptures, he therefore thematizes the lethargy of the people under an authortiarian system.

A Stifling System, 3280

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The third exhibit shows a series of photographies of his 3280 land art project in which he covered the St. Svorad Cathedral in Iglesia Mayor in a huge white coat to criticize the alleged stifling effect of the monarchy on society.

[matty.berry]

ART - I
International Art Festival of Solentia
December 3305 to June 3306

@Metapontum City, Fuwan
The Meaning of Life
by Maxmillion Davids, Solentia

Biography
Maxmillion Davids was born in Metapontum, Fuwan in 3265 to educated members of the Fuwan educated middle classes. His father a University Professor, and his mother a senior partner in the cities longest established legal firm, the young Davids was immersed into the swelling ranks of Fuwan's liberal elite. Aged 22 he read painting and fine art at Metapontum University. His talent was soon spotted by the art savvy collectors in the city and before he even finished his studies his infamous spot paintings were fetching sums unthinkable for one so young. By 25 the young artist had purchased impressive premises on the outskirts of the city and employed a team of a dozen or more apprentices who worked on his art with him. Davids work began to take on more serious themes throughout the 3290's and in 3292 the artist unveiled a work that was to shock, delight and repel observers in equal measures. situated inside a ten tone glass tank of formaldehyde Davids had placed a cow. His fame spread throughout Solentia and beyond and visitors travelled miles to observe the spectacle. Over the next few years Davids developed this theme into his best known and most recognisable motif.

Themes of life and death, mortality and the reason for living have run throughout Davids work ever since this period. At the turn of the century he embarked on a variation of the theme using human skull in his work. The culmination of this project in 3303 saw the artist create what is believed to be the most expensive work of art ever sold in Solentia. The real human skull encrusted in thousands of diamonds was sold to a private collector overseas for an undisclosed sum. However the piece will be on loan and on display in Solentia for the first time during this Decennial Art Festival. The piece can only be viewed from behind a curtain of 10 inch thick safety glass and is guarded at all times by 12 armed members of the elite Republican guard.

Gallery

The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Something Living 3299

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The work was funded by Professor Samuel Atken who in 3298 had offered to pay for whatever artwork Davids wanted to create. The shark itself cost Davids $8,000 and the total cost of the work was $55,000. The shark was caught by a fisherman commissioned to do so, Davids wanted something "big enough to eat you" The works technical specifications are: "Tiger shark, glass, steel, 5% formaldehyde solution, 213 x 518 x 213 cm." Davids often aims to provoke the mind but he does so by setting up direct, often visceral experiences, of which the shark remains the most outstanding. In keeping with the piece's title, the shark is simultaneously life and death incarnate in a way you don't quite grasp until you see it, suspended and silent, in its tank. It gives the innately demonic urge to live a demonic, deathlike form.

Dead or Alive 3304

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This work was specially commissioned for the Decennial Art Festival by the Clarke family who are known to have been fans of Davids from his earliest days. The Zebra was imported secretly into the country bypassing potential zealous customs officers. Davids wanted in this creation to bring something of the unusual to Solentia, something not seen every day, something of beauty that can be admired. Yet the theme of death is obvious in this work too. As one observes the piece is almost impossible to make out if the creature is indeed dead or alive. One begins to question whether the artist is playing some kind of visual trick on us.

For the Love of God 3303

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For the Love of God was produced by Davids in 3303. It consists of a platinum cast of a human skull encrusted with 8,601 flawless diamonds, including a pear-shaped pink diamond located in the forehead. Costing $14 million to produce, the work was sent to auction with an asking price of $50 million. This would have been the highest price ever paid for a single work by a living Solentian artist. Aided in the production of this piece by jewellers Batley & Roy of Halion, comprising 8,601 flawless pavé-laid diamonds over a platinum cast, cover the entirety of the skull, with the exception of the original teeth of the skull. At the centre of the forehead lies a pear-shaped pink diamond, the centrepiece of the work. All diamonds used for the work are said to be ethically sourced.

The History of Avant Guard art in Fuwan - A Lecture given by Maxmillion Davids and Professor Samuel Atkin
The pair will give a brief and informal history of art in Fuwan and will focus on how innovation in art has fostered such liberal attitudes in the state. A question and answer session will follow each event. Monday evenings 9pm till late during the Decennial.