THIS IS NO SAFE SPACE: Art in Capitalist Realism
“We start off with high hopes, then we bottle it. We realise that we’re all going to die, without really finding out the big answers. We develop all those long-winded ideas which just interpret the reality of our lives in different ways, without really extending our body of worthwhile knowledge, about the big things, the real things."
- Irvine Welsh, Trainspotting
$65 billion USD worth of art was sold last year, yet 85% of professional artists can’t make a living wage. Art is being encroached on and territorialised by luxury brands because of their 'Shared Values'. And cost, rather than cultural merit, seems to be driving everything. What happened, and how did we get here?
This punchy, provocative, and powerful small show explores capitalist realism and its pervasive effects on art, culture, and hope.
Inspired by the writings of Mark Fisher, in particular Capitalist Realism: Is there no alternative, the exhibition features fascinating artists from the UK, NZ, Aus and the USA. A free, in-depth illustrated essay by curator Scott Lawrie will be available in print and online.
HOW TO FIND GRANTON STATION:
Jump on a bus (Number's 9, 22, X37), drive (park in the Morrisons opposite and buy gum!), cycle, skate, or walk to this beautiful new arts centre in the old Granton Station at 1 Granton Station Sq, EH5 1FU. Proudly managed by Wasps.
Part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Aug 3 – 24 August, 11-5pm (Free, All Welcome)
