Documenta 15 as a Radical Alternative to Neoliberal Art System

Documenta 15, curated by the Indonesian collective ruangrupa, proposed a tangible alternative to the neoliberal art system by centering on the Indonesian concept of lumbung (communal rice barn). The event shifted focus from individualism to collectivity, replacing market-driven terminology with terms like nongkrong (relaxed socializing) and harvest. Over 1,500 artists and collectives were invited to continue their existing practices rather than produce site-specific works. A decentralized curatorial model used majelis (assemblies) and mini-majelis to foster trust and shared decision-making. The Fridericianum housed a public daycare by Graziela Kunsch, highlighting accessibility for families. The Lumbung Economy working group developed alternative economic models including lumbung Gallery, which prices artworks based on basic needs and redistributes proceeds into a common pot. The event also featured initiatives like Jatiwangi Art Factory's New Rural Agenda, which engaged with policy-making and was invited to the G20 summit in Indonesia. Documenta 15 demonstrated that systemic change in the art world is possible, offering a replicable model rooted in global South practices.