DOXYGEN: Strach z ošklivosti s Otto M. Urbanem

A refreshing cultural blend: part exhibition, part workshop, part experiment. Above all, replenishing oxygen.

DOXYGEN encompasses a series of lectures, workshops, discussions, and creative activities. This event delves into contemporary art and the relevant themes that shape our world today. Evening gatherings at DOX provide a platform for visitors to contemplate both their own inquiries and those of others.

Join Otto M. Urban as he presents a lecture inspired by Joel-Peter Witkin's exhibition Broken World. This talk offers a candid perspective on art that intentionally stretches the limits of acceptability. Witkin's work, rich in physicality, vulnerability, and profound references, can elicit feelings ranging from embarrassment to fascination—key reactions in our exploration of what “ugliness” represents and why it elicits fear.

The lecture will demonstrate that provocative artworks often aim to challenge rather than merely shock. They can disrupt our habitual notions of beauty, address repressed societal topics, and prompt us to reassess our perspectives on the body, otherness, and the transience of life. Together, we will investigate the evolving boundaries of taste and morality, and who defines them across different cultural landscapes. We will also examine why some artworks may feel overwhelming, discussing the interplay of shock, taboo, and intrigue, and how discomfort can lead to a deeper understanding.

Experiencing art that challenges societal norms can be unexpectedly enriching. It enhances our perception, teaches us to engage with discomfort, refines our interpretive skills, and fosters empathy and introspection. Thus, our aversion to ugliness is not solely about rejection, but also what confronting “offensive” art can offer us: an enriched sensitivity, the bravery to explore, and the capacity to see beyond initial impressions.

The lecture will be preceded by a guided tour of the exhibition Joel-Peter Witkin's Broken World with Otto M. Urban, a widely appreciated university educator and curator of the exhibition.

This experience is designed for young individuals aged 16 to 30. The event lasts approximately 2.5 hours, encompassing a guided tour, lecture, and a break.