argos (BE)

still from: Das Modell

argosarts.org

argos is a Brussels based centre for art and media that was founded in 1989. Over the years the organisation has developed from a distributor of artists' video and film into a broader art centre incorporating also functions as exhibitions, screenings and events, production, conservation and preservation, publishing and the development of a public media library.

As an interdisciplinary centre for art and audiovisual media to create a production, presentation and preservation platform for the contemporary Belgian and international audiovisual and visual arts, and more generally all forms of artistic expression moving on the crossing point with the audiovisual media. Nationally and internationally to create dynamic climate in aforementioned domain by means of a development-oriented approach, creating synergies between various assignments. To track characteristic developments in the audiovisual and visual arts, and socially speaking visual and media culture as a whole, in a critical way, to provide a frame of reference and interpretation to the public.

Philosophy

For over fiveteen years argos has played a vital and unique role, both nationally and internationally, in its support of cutting-edge audio-visual art and related cultural practices and discourse. argos defines audio-visual art as time-based, non-commercial production incorporating video or audio elements, including but not limited to: video art, sound art, technology based installation art, essayistic film, independent documentary... However, argos is not bound by pigeonholes: in reality it's often the interdisciplinary which submerges. The organization aims at promoting and supporting artistic practices which are inquisitive, exploratory and experimental. The name argos, taken from the Greek argos, is a reference to a giant with a hundred eyes according to mythology, as well as the faithful dog of Odysseus, the only one to recognise its master on his return. The name suggests the centre's role to look out in all directions and to act as a catalyst within a medial reality for challenging artistic projects and critical discourse.

Because of argos' role as an interdisciplinary cultural institution it is particularly well placed to address a wide range of broadly cultural concerns. As a place of production and mediation, argos is committed to promoting dialogue and exchange at both a national and international level through the provision of programmes which situate artistic practice within a broader cultural, social and political framework. The active exchange of ideas and information is critical to that charter.

argos combines a whole range of activities and services with a high degree of logic and support. As much as possible commitments to artists pass through the various levels of the organization. First and foremost this line-up is an advantage to the artists: the integration of argos' functions allows their work to flow through - from the festival over exhibits and publications into distribution, for instance - enabling them to reach an audience through different channels. Because of this transversal positioning argos becomes a house with permanent meeting possibilities. Apart from exhibitions a continuity of various activities is held at argos all year round - from media library operations and studio production/ workshops over visits by researchers, curators and schools to small-scale presentations and moments of discourse. Even though these aspects are not always visible to the outside world, they are part of the chore of the organization.

With regard to content argos strongly emphasises reflection, development, an interdisciplinary attitude and education. Work with a critical signature, striving for innovating qualities or presenting itself with social commitment receives priority. Specifically towards the Belgian audio-visual art production argos has become a point of reference and an exponent throughout the years, because of its central position and the way it is embedded in various networks.