More than an object. Piloot projects for commissioned art.

At the symposium ‘Imagination and public domain. Possibilities of commissioned art’ on 11 December 2015, the publication ‘More than object’ on the Pilot Projects Art in Commission was presented.

Commissioned art provides interesting insights, but equally fodder for discussion. Not all those involved in a public or public-private art commission share the same perspective. Client, designer, artistic expert, artist and audience each have different priorities and expectations. The challenge therefore lies in creating space for a shared and supported art project from a smooth collaboration.

In 2013, the Flemish Government Architect convinced the Minister of Culture, Kunstenpunt and Department CJM to co-instigate innovation for this sector. Under the title ‘More than object’, the Pilot Projects Art in Commission were launched in 2014. The aim is to realise five groundbreaking art projects in public spaces, stretching and renewing existing practices, partnerships and (legislative) frameworks.

The book ‘More than object’ offers an interim report. The projects in Herzele, Ghent, Genk, Aalst and Antwerp function as anatomical theatres in which the modus operandi of art and policy can be closely followed.