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Bik Van der Pol's 'Past Imperfect': An Exhibition Exploring Knowledge Circulation at Secession

The exhibition delves into radical artistic decisions and knowledge circulation through history and memory.

Explore 'Past Imperfect,' an intriguing exhibition by Bik Van der Pol at Secession. This project examines the complex dynamics of knowledge, history, and memory within artistic and cultural practices. Discover their research into how temporal commitments influence radical decisions in art history, inviting reflection on significant cultural shifts. The exhibition builds on earlier work, exploring themes of control and disappearance.

About Bik Van der Pol at Secession in Vienna

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Bik Van der Pol at Secession in Vienna

Exhibition summary

This exhibition by the Dutch artist duo Bik Van der Pol, titled 'Past Imperfect,' explores the circulation of knowledge through the reactivation of history and memory. The project delves into situations where specific temporal commitments in artistic production lead to radical decisions and shifts in cultural or artistic practice.

Curatorial context

The exhibition "Past Imperfect" by Bik Van der Pol (Liesbeth Bik and Jos van der Pol) examines the dynamics of knowledge circulation, history, and memory within artistic and cultural practices. Working collaboratively since 1995, the duo researches situations where a commitment to specific temporalities in art leads to radical choices, influencing the course of art history. The project builds upon their earlier research from 2001, inspired by the conceptual artist Lee Lozano, focusing on radical gestures, control, destruction, and disappearance. For their Secession presentation, Bik Van der Pol shifts focus from Lozano as a person to the abstract experience of knowledge and how political or individual radicality shapes public perception. Their research incorporates "cases" from the art world, such as Bas Jan Ader and Lee Lozano, alongside moments from film history (like Erich von Strohheim's "Greed"), politics, literature, science, and daily life. In Vienna, they specifically highlight the Trinity Site in New Mexico, a former secret nuclear test site that has transitioned from a classified area to a limited tourist attraction. This focus underscores their interest in events and their consequences, particularly those that were once hidden or not fully perceived in their radicality, and how such phenomena are re-examined and integrated into current interests.

Admission and ticket notes

Information regarding tickets can be found via a provided link to the Secession's ticketing partner, Eventjet. General visiting information and opening hours are also available on the Secession's website, indicating that standard museum admission likely applies for exhibitions, though separate ticket details are not explicitly detailed on this page. Visitors are directed to the online shop for purchasing tickets.

Bik Van der Pol key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Bik Van der Pol at Secession in Vienna

Venue
Secession
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
From May 5, 2005
Artist line / attribution
Bik Van der Pol is an artist duo formed by Liesbeth Bik and Jos van der Pol, who have been working together since 1995. They live and work in Rotterdam.
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