Marjetica Potrc

'I believe that the human body is embedded in one of the most enduring languages we have, the language of architecture.' MP. The Slovenian artist Marjetica Potrc (born 1953) – originally trained as an architect - is known for her 'case studies' of improvised buildings all over the world. Using analytical drawings and self-constructed buildings, Potrc shows how local inhabitants come up with and realise solutions that sometimes function better than the plans originating from the urban developer's drawing board. Potrc's projects are intended to suggest concrete possibilities for improving the relation between the individual and society. Her projects have strong social, political and economic dimensions. 'Caracas: House with Extended Territory' (2003) was created during a six months stay in Venezuela where she worked with other artists, architects and urban planners on the interdisciplinary 'Caracas Case Project', which examined the unregulated and fast-growing urban structures in the shanty towns (Barrios) of Caracas. In her exhibition in De Appel she is showing different versions of these inventive do-it-yourself buildings. Crates, corrugated panels, bricks, canvas and other recycled materials are meant to make the visitor aware of the local situation in which they develop. As a complement to the constructions, Potrc is showing drawings that provide an immediate insight into her way of thinking about important issues concerning environmental planning, such as energy provision, communication and infrastructure. Pressetext

Marjetica Potrc