The latest exhibition at Kunsthalle, titled READ by Elmgreen and Dragset, creates a discussion among art and literature students alike.
The collaborative endeavor between renowned artists Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset has emerged as a cultural phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on its visitors and igniting conversations about the intersection of art and literature.
One of the most striking elements of the exhibition is the extensive array of books in various languages adorning the lower level. What sets this display apart is the opportunity for museum-goers to engage directly with the texts, flipping through pages to absorb the stories within.
“The area on Prague diaries that I particularly liked to read at the end was the most fun. I could have spent hours reading a lengthy article I found about the Palestine protests in Prague, complete with illustrations,” Abdul Hussein, a museum-goer, said.
Pieces range from a collection of mountaineering books suspended near the ceiling of Kunsthalle to a novel covered in gold paint on the upper floor that begs the question: when you love a book, do you destroy it through dog-eared pages, coffee stains, and in this case, gold paint?
READ by Elmgreen and Dragset offers a multifaceted exploration of the act of reading that is as engaging as it is thought-provoking. Its seamless blend of whimsy and introspection invites viewers to wander through its corridors and contemplate the enduring allure of literature.
The exhibition is located at Kunsthalle Praha, only a 5-minute walk from Anglo-American University, and will run until April 22nd, 2024.
