Contemporary art continues to evolve towards innovative and accessible formats, and one of the most prominent trends is the exhibition in unconventional spaces. More and more artists and collectives are transforming abandoned buildings, houses slated for demolition, and other alternative venues into temporary galleries, challenging traditional exhibition norms. This practice not only highlights the adaptability of contemporary art but also fosters connections with more diverse and decentralized audiences.
Examples like the one in Bogotá, where two collectives have revitalized unused urban spaces, inspire artists worldwide. But what about Europe? How can Spanish artists adopt this trend and bring it to their cities?
Art Takes over Alternative Spaces in Europe
In Europe, the use of unconventional spaces for exhibitions is setting the pace for contemporary art. Cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, and London have led this movement, converting abandoned factories, industrial warehouses, and vacant housing into vibrant artistic venues. These spaces not only offer an economical alternative to traditional galleries but also add a narrative dimension to the art, connecting it with the urban and social context.
In Berlin, for example, projects like Urban Spree have transformed old workshops into cultural epicenters. In Paris, the collective “59 Rivoli” revived a ruined building and turned it into a space for ephemeral exhibitions and art workshops open to the public.
Initiative in Spain: Identifying and Reimagining Abandoned Spaces
In Spain, there is immense potential to utilize abandoned buildings and houses slated for demolition in cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, San Sebastián, A Coruña, Málaga, and Seville. These places can become innovative platforms for organizing an exhibition in unconventional spaces.
Examples of Buildings with Potential:
- Madrid: The old Clesa factory or Legazpi Market.
- Barcelona: The factories in Poblenou and the Can Batlló building.
- Valencia: Industrial buildings in the Cabanyal neighborhood.
- San Sebastián: Empty spaces in Tabakalera or mansions in the surroundings of the “old town”.
- A Coruña: Unoccupied port warehouses near the Paseo Marítimo.
- Málaga: The ruins of old farmhouses in the outskirts of the city.
- Seville: Abandoned historic houses in the Triana neighborhood.
How to Organize a One-Day Exhibition
To take advantage of these spaces, artists should consider clear logistics. Here we present a step-by-step guide to organize an exhibition in unconventional spaces for one day:
Research and Permissions
- Identify abandoned or unused buildings with accessibility.
- Contact owners or institutions to request temporary permits.
Logistical Planning
- Organize a setup and tear-down team.
- Plan a schedule that takes advantage of daylight, as these exhibitions often lack artificial lighting.
Exhibition Design
- Choose works that dialogue with the space.
- Use portable and reusable materials for the setup.
Promotion
- Spread the event through social media with geolocation.
- Create an itinerary to promote tours in various cities.
Security and Protection
- Hire personnel to ensure the safety of the works and visitors.
- Use resistant packaging for the protection of pieces during transport.
Proposed Logistical Route in Spain
To maximize the impact of a traveling exhibition, we suggest a logistical route that includes the mentioned cities. Each stop could offer an exhibition in unconventional spaces, allowing artists to connect with local communities:
- Madrid
- Barcelona
- Valencia
- San Sebastián
- A Coruña
- Seville
- Málaga
The tour can be conducted over a month, scheduling exhibitions on consecutive days and taking advantage of the rail connections between cities.
Conclusion: a Move towards Innovation and Inclusion
Adopting the trend of exhibitions in unconventional spaces not only challenges traditional art norms but also opens doors to new forms of expression and connection with the public. In Spain, this initiative can revitalize forgotten buildings, generate cultural impact, and offer an accessible platform for emerging artists.
Artists transform abandoned buildings and alternative venues into temporary galleries, connecting with diverse audiences. Learn how to organize your own exhibition in these unique settings.
It’s time for Spanish artists to draw inspiration from movements in cities like Bogotá and Berlin and explore the opportunities these alternative spaces offer. Let’s transform abandoned places into vibrant stages for contemporary art, bringing creativity to every corner of our cities.
