Doing Art politically: What Does It Mean?

RA Schools Annual Lecture 2008

5 November 2008
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Generously supported by The David Lean Foundation

The Royal Academy Schools' inaugural lecture is given by artist Thomas Hirschhorn. Hirschhorn who was born in Switzerland in 1957 studied at the Schule für Gestaltung, Zürich. He then moved in 1983 to Paris where he initially worked as a graphic designer. He is perhaps best known for his site specific installation works, which can be found both inside and outside the gallery setting.

Hirschhorn says 'Today there is great confusion about the question concerning what "Political" and "political" are. I am only interested in what is really political, the "Political" with a capital P, the political that implicates: Where do I stand? Where does the other stand? What do I want? What does the other want? The "political" with a small p, the opinions and forging of the majorities, does not interest, and has never interested me. For I am concerned with making my art politically.'

The annual lecture forms part of one of four annual events run by the Royal Academy Schools which are open to both the public and Royal Academy Schools students alike.

The Royal Academy Schools is run by artists for artists and is a leading centre for the postgraduate study of fine art; offering the only three-year, full time course in the UK. The RA Schools offer a forum for a lively programme of events, with lectures and individual tutorials provided by Royal Academicians, international contemporary artists, critics, writers and theorists.

Geological Society, Piccadilly, W1J 0BG; 6.30pm

• Royal Academy of Arts