The Drop was a conceptual exhibition that posed questions about the current environmental landscape in order to foster a deeper understanding of our natural resources and environment. The debates and concerns over the sustainability of the environment have become increasingly complex as systems for environmental erosion are constantly in flux. Cross-disciplinary dialogues amongst scientists, artists, environmentalists, conservationists, and historians are more important than ever in tackling our current world water issues. The Drop presented twenty-six unique perspectives that added to this ongoing discourse.
Some of the topics explored in The Drop included: global warming, pollution, shortages, over-building, government regulations, privatization of public lands and the subsequent degradation of our natural environment. The multidisciplinary artworks and installations in this timely exhibition project had a two-fold purpose; to inform the audience about global water issues, and to propose ideas to reclaim, restore, and remedy environments so that we can co-exist with nature.
Since 1995, Exit Art has annually produced a limited-edition set of individually handmade artist prints. Created exclusively for Exit Art, each portfolio matches younger and more established artists and includes at least one artist working in the print medium for the first time. Many of the artists have taken the opportunity of working in Exit Art's print editions to experiment with the printmaking medium, pushing the boundaries of contemporary printmaking through different processes, materials and form. The entire collection can be seen as a history of contemporary printmaking.
Unfinished Memories: 30 Years of Exit Art is an intimate portrait of an institution that from 1982 to 2012 challenged social, political, aesthetic and curatorial norms. Committed to experimenting at the intersection of disciplines, publications and design, the gallery Exit Art remained steadfast in its mission to provide new possibilities and opportunities for artists, curators and viewers through its expansive historical shows, exhibitions of emerging and under-recognized artists, experimental theatre and performance works, as well as national and international film and video programs.
Conceived by Exit Art’s founders, Jeanette Ingberman and Papo Colo, this volume is a resource on more than 200 exhibitions, events, festivals and programs featuring more than 2,500 artists, presented within the larger context of the art world. More than seventy eyewitness accounts and idiosyncratic recollections from artists, curators, critics and friends create a vivid sense of the exhibitions, performances, screenings, discussions, ideas and people that were part of Exit Art during its three-decade run.
