Plug In to Play

This publication contains an overview of the Plug In and Living Archive presentations with images, short informative texts, discussions with the makers and a look into the future. The book shows the experimental journey that has lead the museum from Plug In and Living Archive to the new 18-month project Play Van Abbe. Play Van Abbe consists of exhibitions, projects, performances, lectures, discussions, and new ways to explore critical reflection by the audience on the relations between art and society.

Both Plug In and Living Archive have offered the museum a chance to present art works in unexpected constellations, not only to point out art historical references, but also social and economical history, political changes and cultural differences.

The use of materials, methods and scenarios by artists have changed over the last decades. What are the consequences for the presentation of art works? What meaning can a collection give to its surroundings?