An art fair based on a simple principle of exchange between the artist and "the buyer" where no money is involved? It sounded pretty interesting to us, therefore we spent a couple of hours in the Bozar galleries this Saturday. Art*Truc*Troc's history goes back to 1971 when a couple of artists willing both to be better known by the public and receive a certain material support decided to lay the foundation of this art fair. After two successful editions in 1975 and 1976, the art fair entered a cone of shadow only to be revitalized in 2004.
The basic principle is that the interested party leaves a note with a written offer for the piece of artwork exhibited and, if the artist is interested, he/she contacts the "the buyer" to make the exchange. Needless to say that many of the offers are quite cheeky, but among them, interesting ones can be found. For example, last year, an artist exchanged an engraving for a balloon ride. An oil on plexiglass for an iPad2 (practical one!). A photo for a week holiday in a house for 8 people in Portugal. An artwork for auto-hypnose sessions with a neuropsychiatrist (mmmmhhhmm...).
We, of course, placed a couple of bids for a few artworks that we liked and now we're waiting to see if successful. And no matter the result of our bids, at least we spent a couple of hours in an art-friendly atmosphere surrounded by people sharing the sweet tooth for contemporary art. In the meantime we enjoy our coffees and teas waiting for spring in the rainy city. Because there is nothing like the wave of good mood and happiness brought by a decent amount of sun rays.
Love,
Laura&Elena
