International visitors: Joana Monbaron and Alexander Ivanov (RUS)

Joana Monbaron and Alexander Ivanov work on a long-term multidisciplinary research project ‘Tracing out of thin air’. It addresses the complex conditions of norm, ability and dependency in art. The project builds on the history of the Art Studio, situated in the psycho-neurological centre №3 in Peterhof, Russia, and derives from the artistic and institutional practices framed within it. The Art Studio was established in 2001 by the non-profit public organisation «Perspektivy» and offers artists with physical or mental disabilities opportunities to work.

Monbaron and Ivanov visit the Netherlands as part of their research project. The working visit focusses on the themes museums as places of inclusion, accessibility of museums for people with a (physical and mental) disability, museum education and art as enhancer of social empowerment. During their stay Monbaron and Ivanov meet with various museum, education and care professionals to discuss their approach, challenges and vision. Dutch institutions participating in the visitors programme are: Hermitage Amsterdam, Cordaan, Van Gogh Museum, Wat Telt, Van Abbemuseum Eindhoven, Tropenmuseum, Museum Dolhuys Haarlem, Het Vijfde Seizoen, Casco, office for Art, Design and Theory, Galerie Atelier Herenplaats, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Witte de With and Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam.

The work visit of Monbaron and Ivanov is part of DutchCulture’s effort to explore possibilities for lasting collaborations between the Dutch cultural sector and internationally oriented independent professionals in Russia. DutchCulture focusses on stimulating small-scale projects with Russia’s new generation artists and the exchange of expertise between Dutch institutions and key figures in Russia’s current scene. We aim to identify and relate to alternative networks for an ongoing cultural dialogue with Russia’s creative sector.

For more information about Joana Monbaron’s and Alexander Ivanov’s visitors programme, please contact Ruben Eijkelenberg (Advisor Russia).