Iven Orx & Aaron Vinn’s studio – Art in the context of its creation

Iven Orx and Aaron Vinn’s studio is located in the midst of the city of Cologne in the gallery district. In addition to numerous galleries and art shops, this area is home to renowned museums for contemporary art such as Kolumba, MAKK, and the Ludwig Museum at Cologne Cathedral. The internationally renowned Art Cologne fair also has its headquarters nearby.

The studio originated in the premises of a former Cologne marzipan factory and has been in existence since 2007. It spans three floors and encompasses a precisely structured arrangement of various areas. On the ground floor, there is an exhibition hall showcasing a collection of selected artworks. In the basement, the latest works of the artists are presented. The first floor serves as a back office, where the conception and planning of creative projects for clients take place. Finally, on the same level, the creative spaces unfold, where the artists create their works in an inspiring environment, giving life to their artistic vision.

Special attention is given to the Orx and Vinn exhibition spaces. They embody the concept of “Individual Mythology,” developed by the renowned curator and exhibition maker Harald Szeemann. Szeemann was a key figure in the contemporary art world, known for his innovative approaches in art exhibition and curation. The idea behind “Individual Mythology” is that artists develop their own personal mythology. This means they have their own stories, symbols, dreams, and memories that form a unique narrative structure. This individual mythology is a kind of inner world shaped by personal experiences, cultural influences, and individual imaginations. Szeemann believed that it was the task of art to explore and represent these individual mythologies. Artists are able to express these inner worlds in their works, thus bridging the gap between the individual and society.

The structure of the Orx and Vinn exhibition spaces has evolved over the years and goes beyond the widespread “White Cube” exhibition concept. It is reminiscent of “Merzbau” – Kurt Schwitters’ walk-in assemblage. Visitors can expect a selection of works from the first decade as well as current pieces, all interwoven with the deepening “Individual Mythology” of the artists. This creates a narrative structure that allows experiencing art in the context of its creation.

The significant philosopher and educator John Dewey emphasized the relevance of the context of creation in art. He once said, “Art is not only the result but also the process of creation itself.” This quote from Dewey underscores the importance of understanding the creative process of Orx and Vinn’s art by the viewers. In this place, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of the artists, not just superficially examining artworks but also better grasping their meaning and intent.

IMPRESSIONS FROM THE EXHIBITION SPACES