Martynas Gaubas, The Emigration (2012), curated by c-lab is on show in Spitalfields, London until 24 April 2012
While checking up on Lithuanian artist Martynas Gaubas public art exhibition, The Emigration, in Spitalfields today, I thought about the Lithuanian gentleman who curiously approached us the evening before while we were installing the work.
It was late, cold and wet, but he was eager know more about the work - a sculpture dedicated, in Gaubas words, to "those who emigrate".
"But this is true", he commented. He, himself had emigrated from Lithuania and found a new life, like the Lithuanian joke of its country being a place natives leave and only return for vacations.
"The artist must have a lot of friends, but I understand, they leave...it is sad...but true". The work, in these words, reminds me of pandora's box, the heart of hope spanning through art and memories, almost too big for our box.