Empty Action - Labour and Free Time in the Art of Collective Actions

Collective Actions is an artistic practice that emerged from Moscow Conceptualism. Marina Gerber explores its relation to labor in the late Soviet Union, focusing on the group's enigmatic idea of "Empty action" as a form of art after work.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2021
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

Collective Actions stands as one of the most significant artistic practices to emerge from the vibrant realm of Moscow Conceptualism. The enigmatic concept of "Empty action" serves as the central focus of Marina Gerber's exploration into this practice, particularly in its relationship to labor in the late Soviet Union. Through extensive interviews with key members of the group, including Monastyrski, Panitkov, Alexeev, Makarevich, Elagina, Romashko, Hänsgen, and Kiesewalter, Gerber unveils the intricate connections between their jobs, individual artistic endeavors, and their contributions to the collective within the context of the ongoing debates surrounding labor and free time in the post-Stalinist era.

It is worth noting that Collective Actions' practice unfolded during the leisure time outside of work for the Soviet State. However, Gerber goes beyond the mere factual observation and identifies "Empty action" as a unique form of art that transcends the boundaries of traditional work. She sees it as a manifestation of creativity and self-expression that emerges after the demands of the workplace have been met.

In her analysis, Gerber delves into the personal experiences and perspectives of the group members, shedding light on how their jobs influenced their artistic practices and vice versa. She explores the ways in which the collective's activities and discussions shaped their individual artistic expressions and the ways in which their contributions to the collective resonated within the broader context of post-Stalinist debates on labor and free time.

Through her meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Gerber offers a fresh perspective on Collective Actions and their profound impact on the artistic landscape of the late Soviet Union. Her work not only sheds light on the group's creative process but also provides valuable insights into the complex social and cultural dynamics of that era.

Collective Actions' enigmatic concept of "Empty action" continues to inspire artists and scholars alike, reminding us of the power of creativity and self-expression to transcend the boundaries of traditional work and shape our understanding of the world.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 226 x 147 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837640908