The exhibition “What do you see? What would you like to see?” is part of the collective artistic research “100 poplars” that is based on exhibitions, events and artist residencies in Valga. The exhibition is focused on identity creation and brings together perspectives and viewpoints of locals and outsiders. During the time of construction of the new central square that would unite Valga and Valka it is appropriate to think about developing the idea of the united city also in other contexts – in human relations, institutions, general mode of life. The global capital abolishes borders and generates the new ones. Art, in the other hand, has potential for autonomy in respect of the global capital. Therefore this exhibition calls up people to think of a united city by using artistic approach, intervention and activism.

“What do you see? What would you like to see?” is part of the trilogy, comprised of three exhibitions in three different locations. Simultaneously with this show a brand new art space – Brīvības galerija, located in Vabaduse 14, Valga (30 meters from the museum) – will open its doors to present Alexei Gordin's solo show “Weird feeling”. Gordin's exhibition speaks of an unstable position that artists have under the influence of contemporary art and art market. Brīvības galerija itself is an art project and brings up a rhetorical question – would the united city Valgka need an art gallery? Besides this, the third exhibition will be opened in the middle of April. On 11th of April German/Polish artist and activist Michael Kurzwelly will open his exhibition in Valga Cultural Center. The show introduces his continuous initiative “Slubfurt” that is based in Frankfurt Oder/Slubice, located at the German-Polish border. Slubfurt as a united city might inspire the people of Valga/Valka in working out a united city, therefore local people are called to join public workshops and discussions during Kurzwelly's 3 week residency.

The exhibition is supported by Center for Contemporary Arts Estonia and their Estonia 100 art program “Comers, Goers and Stayers – the histories of Estonian communities”.

Thank you Anna Laganovska, Helen Elbrecht


Tanel Rander
researcher-curator-artist