Nan van Houte to give lecture on role of art in a changing world

Artists, industry professionals and the wider public will gather this weekend for a fascinating talk by the acclaimed Nan van Houte on art issues during challenging times. The lecture titled ‘Live art in a world in shambles. Not such a funny story’ is part of a series of events by Larnaka 2030 and will be held in the coastal town this Saturday. Taking place for free and in English, the lecture will begin at 11am at Larnaka 2030 Gallery in Zouhouri Square and run for two hours.

Nan van Houte is an artist, dramaturg, curator and art administrator with vast experience on the international stage. Her work and approach raise questions about the foundations of art. This invitation from Larnaka 2030 seeks to establish stronger connections between the local artistic community and the international scene, a mission that is a top priority for the organisation in its bid to make Larnaca European Capital of Culture.

Hoping to extend the discussion on art during troubling and changing times in society and the world, the event is open to all, artists or not.

“While writing these lines,” says Nan van Houte in a statement, “I am constantly distracted by my screens: incoming messages on my laptop, checking social media on my phone and zapping from Al Jazeera to BBC to national channels. Yet another tragedy is evolving in a place that’s a few thousand kilometers away from my hometown, but present in all chambers of my heart. Moments like these make me wonder. What does the world need from arts and artists? What can our artform bring? Artivism, provocation, healing, distraction? And: who are the ‘we’, what is ‘our artform’? Let’s start by focusing on the (potential) power of ‘live’ and hope it may help us to search for our personal answer.”

Live art in a world in shambles. Not such a funny story

Lecture by artist Nan van Houte. Part of Larnaka 2030. December 2. Larnaka 2030 Gallery, Zouhour Square, Larnaca. 11am-1pm. Free. In English. [email protected]