Archives and Memory in Matera: I-DEA Cycle Concludes

The I-DEA initiative in Matera, part of the European Capital of Culture 2019 program, concludes with three complementary exhibitions exploring archives and memory. The cycle began with 'Thauma Atlante del gesto' by dancer and choreographer Virgilio Sieni at Cava Paradiso until October 7, investigating disappearing gestures through photographs, objects, films, and drawings, accompanied by public performances. The fourth exhibition, 'Il Paese di Cuccagna,' curated by artist Navine G. Khan Dossos and writer-artist James Bridle, reinterprets the concept of Cockaigne as an attainable utopia hidden in everyday practices, blending ancient and modern artifacts. The final project features conceptual artist Liam Gillick and curator Pelin Tan, critically examining modernism and state-led development in Basilicata since the 1950s through architecture as an archival tool. Separately, the '19 scuole x 19 archivi' project engages high school students in workshops led by professionals including Giulio Giordano, Gianluca Caporaso, Isabelle Montoya, and Kiana Tajammol, who reinterpret family objects into personal archives. Student works will be exhibited at the Festival dell'Open Culture from December 10 to 20.