Underskog

Petter Alexander Goldstine is a performance artist whose work focuses on social issues and he is our guest in connection with his show The American Dream at Black Box Theater (an event that will be performed in a small apartment to be announced).

Curator Marianne Coseratt (Brussels/Paris) is invited to hold a lecture on Petter Goldstine’s work.

My life in art began with fine art photography, which manifested into a social documentary form. For five years I have lived among homeless Americans, Gypsies, Palestinians and Israelis, Kurds, Bangladeshi illegal immigrants and guerrilla soldiers; the outcasts of our society. My experiences with these people taught me about a humanity I have rarely felt from photographs. I began to understand that a world of media and advertising has desensitized our ability to be affected by mere images. Thus I began to search for other forms to contact the «viewer». From my journalistic background I have found that art takes up where news and media fall short; to inform people.

The American Dream is a question under constant discussion, it exemplifies the idea that through hard work, courage and determination one can achieve prosperity resulting in success. I have been met with consistent cynicism when I have asked younger people about the American dream. Cookie cutter answers of the clichés we have grown up with are the responses to my questions. To find out what the American dream means today, I have to find another approach; I am seeking the personal dreams of Americans.

Open Forum is a series of lectures, presentations and discussions with artists initiated by the National Academy of Fine Art in Oslo. Open Forum normally takes place every Monday at 19:00 in the auditorium at St.Olavsgt. 32, and is open for anyone interested, also outside the Academy.

For more information on the Open Forum program, contact us via e-mail at [email protected] for more information or to join the mailing list.

Welcome,

Margarida Paiva & Frode Markhus