Anthony Schrag - An exhibition of work as part of Standpoint Futures Residency Programme

About

Focusing on the physical sensations of the body rather than intellect and/or ideas, Anthony Schrag's practice falls within a grey area of artistic practice that combines performance, participatory events and socially engaged work. For his final public presentation, Schrag presents the culmination of a project developed specifically for Standpoint and the surrounding area. The work explores the assumptions within social engagement agendas and public arts policy that advocate a utopian ideal where ‘everyone gets along', and recognises that this is an impossibility. Instead Schrag suggests we embrace conflicts and divisions as a natural and positive part of culture and proposes a ‘good tension' wherein alternative views and life experiences can exist side by side. The works presented within the gallery space take the form of social research, remnant documentation and performative objects — all of which are being developed in conjunction with a social event engaging the residents of the surrounding Geffrye and Arden Housing Estates, taking place in Hoxton Community Gardens on July 23rd. Along with this presentation of research, Schrag is interested in revisiting the white-cube gallery as a problematic context in which to present such forms of ephemeral material. This special two-day presentation is part of Anthony Schrag's participation in Standpoint Futures Development Residencies designed specifically for artists based outside of London. It will include a talk at 6.30pm by Anthony Schrag on Thursday 28th July, and an opportunity to meet and talk to the artist at any time during the two days. The residency's chief aims are to provide high quality, individualized opportunities to develop an artists practice and career, and to integrate London and the Regional UK art world to promote dialogue and interchange. Please see residency blog to keep up to date with the progress of each residency http://standpointfutures.tumblr.com/ Standpoint Futures is supported by Arts Council England, Arts Council Wales, arc, Castlefield Gallery, Eastside Projects, OUTPOST, Spike Island and Peacock Visual Arts.