Conference Explores Unofficial Art Networks in Former Eastern Bloc's Second Public Sphere

The conference titled 'Performing Arts in the Second Public Sphere' was held at Free University Berlin from May 9 to 11, 2014, under the organization of Katalin Cseh and Adam Czirak. It focused on the unofficial cultural activities in Eastern Bloc nations during the 1960s through the 1980s, examining themes such as subversive practices, gender dynamics, and the lives of dissidents. Art historian Andrea Bátorová addressed the interchange between public spheres, citing Piotr Piotrowski's concept of a third public sphere in Poland during the 1970s and 1980s. Czirak noted the importance of this term for studying Eastern European neo-avant-gardes, while Cseh pointed out the significance of the second public sphere in fostering alternative actions. The conference aimed to establish an international network and discussed plans for a publication and website (www.2ndpublic.org).