The Rotterdam Contemporary Art Fair seems to be on its way to become obsolete. Yes, some good galleries are present and some good artists are represented, but it fails to be an alternative to the Art Rotterdam Fair.
Too much art on show seems to be made to suit the modern or postmodern living room. It seems to be made for buyers who want to feel assured about their identity (not to be confused with individuality).
Everything is there: some expressionism, a bit geometric abstract, a little post-modern etc., to be short, nothing special.
But happily there are exceptions. Probably one of the most remarkable projects is Te Koop (For Sale) by Benjamin Li represented by A Gallery Named Sue.
At Livingstone Gallery painter Jan Wattjes shows an interesting, almost romantic video loop.
At With Tsalling Gallery Jans Muskee has a solo show, which is quite attractive.
Olaf Mooij shows his DJ. Wiel (DJ Wheel), which i personally prefer to real life DJs.
Apart from these interesting things there is more than just boring lifestyle junk. The No Walls presentation is probably more interesting than the greater part of the fair.
Another aspect which adds to the mediocrity of the fair is the lack of international representation. So please, for the next time, do it better or just don’t do it! It all made me long for fried eggs with ham and cheese (an uitsmijter) which i ate in Witte de Withstraat.
[Click on the pictures to enlarge]
Bertus Pieters