When we thought we already knew the answers, life changed all the questions. The short history of Chto Delat International
Presented by Tsaplya Olga Egorova and Dmitry Vilensky
February 15, 2024, 6.30 pm
The presentation provides a comprehensive insights into history and artistic practices of Chto Delat collective
In January 2024 the Chto Delat collective turned 20 years old. It is one of the most enduring and successful collective works/projects in the field of contemporary international art. During this time there have been many dramatic changes in the world. The collective's artworks and statements have always strived to match, and respond to, these dramatic changes.
The Chto Delat collective has produced a large body of artworks that have been shown in many major contemporary art exhibitions (Documenta 2007, 11th Istanbul Biennial, 17th Biennale of Sydney, 31 Sao Paulo Biennial, Shanghai Biennale and another 28 biennials). The group’s works are in collections of major contemporary art museums such as MoMA in New York, the Reina Sophia in Madrid, and the Van Abbemuseum in The Netherlands). Also, the philosophers and theorists of the collective: Oksana Timofeeva, Artemiy Magun, Alexey Penzin, are publishing books and articles while also participating in the most important international forums in the field of contemporary philosophy and aesthetics.
In addition, the Chto Delat collective is internationally known in the field of extrainstitutional art education. In addition tothe temporary seminar projects, summer schools, and learning plays, in 2013 the collective founded the School of Engaged Art in St. Petersburg, from which has emerged a number of artists who have largely shaped the collective and politically engaged practices in Russian art over the past 10 years.
After being forced to emigrate from Russia in 2022 due to police prosecution for their anti-war activities, the Chto Delat collective initiated a new educational initiative, the School of Emergencies. It exists in different places - where many political refugees from Russia find themselves in communication with a new cultural environment. The work of the school seeks to maintain and develop this dialog.