IGNASI ABALLÍ
2023-05-08In the exhibition, which also emanates from the idea of error, the relationship between the concept of one’s own failure and that of defeat is at least as peculiar. The inherent nature of failure makes it impossible to correspond to the reality of defeat. Practically, defeat cannot exist as an entity in its own right; it can consequently only be seen as the result of a process that presupposes realization. Thus, the previously rejected paintings can never be considered as defeats per se, since they, not fully realized, belong to the realm of failure. They hence depend directly on the non-completion of a process and are therefore exempt from presenting any result, expressing any judgment or comment, positive or negative. The essence of failure is on no account synonymous with the concept of defeat, just as giving up during a game of chess excludes its sporting result. Whereas a defeat leads to checkmate and thus to the end of the game, the act of failing translates the chess game into a situation deprived of consequences. A defeat marks, in other words, a conclusion, a negative conclusion, but a conclusion nonetheless, it embodies a process that has reached its logical end. On the contrary, the nature of one’s own failure implies a dysfunction that disrupts the project in its course and development, thereby preventing any conclusion.
Opposite – Installation view
Exhibition runs through to June 17th, 2023
Galerie nächst St. Stephan Rosemarie Schwarzwälder
Domgasse 6
1010 Vienna
Austria
