Melanie Bono

A primary objective of my curatorial practice is to present positions which, by crossing aesthetic and media boundaries, are not only challenging but also a generate a form of happiness that is specific to art. I define this happiness as the moment when seeing, understanding and feeling combine to create unexpected associations and new perspectives. It can only be achieved through a finely balanced, complex interaction between artist, artwork, context, content, communication and reception. As a curator I see myself above all as a facilitator, both of the artistic process and of the discourse with the audience. I am especially keen to work with artists who take a new or unconventional approach to present-day concerns. One of the stimulating aspects of contemporary art is that it provides the opportunity to initiate and present new productions, unusual exhibition concepts and site-specific approaches that are specifically tailored to the NAK and its institutional context. I am particularly interested in artistic positions that deal with the legacy of the avant-garde. As an institution, the Kunstverein is virtually compelled to offer a provocative and surprising programme in order to provide a forum for discussion and debate. For me it is very important to undertake experiments on all of these levels (which also means accepting the possibility of failure), to render the process of making art and exhibitions as transparent as possible and to engage the viewer throughout.

Melanie Bono (2008)