Theo Triantafyllidis
PROTOTYPE
January 25, 2025–March 22, 2025Studio Odeonsplatz, Munich
Under the title “PROTOTYPE – An exhibition of the Mercedes-Benz Art Collection at Studio Odeonsplatz”, the art collection of Mercedes-Benz will present the works of six international contemporary artists from 25 January to 22 March, 2025, who approach the phenomenon of the prototype and its potential for innovation in diverse ways. Inspired by the history of automotive design, contemporary media, and digital culture, their artworks merge the physical and digital realms. The pieces range from an experimental video game to blockchain-based integrations and visual compositions based on human breath. The exhibition was developed by the Mercedes-Benz Art Collection and external curator Christopher Dake-Outhet.
The Phenomenon “Prototype” – Between Vision and Standardisation
Prototypes navigate the tension between creative vision and commercial standardisation. They capture the moments before production transforms forward-thinking ideas into a product, embodying a belief in the future that is tested by market demands and the feasibility of series production. It is precisely in this space of possibilities where the potential of prototypes lies.
The prototype as a leitmotif builds a bridge between art and the automobile in the Mercedes-Benz Art Collection exhibition – two areas where prototypical thinking is of utmost relevance. With prototypes such as the Mercedes-Benz concept vehicles, some of which are displayed as scale models at Studio Odeonsplatz, Mercedes-Benz provides an insight into the versatility of technological visions. Artists, in turn, often embody the essence of the prototype by challenging traditional production methods and creating works that resist standardisation. In doing so, they go beyond conventional consensus and the idea of practicality. Accordingly, the presentation at Studio Odeonsplatz invites the audience to understand the artworks as prototypes.
Artists: Salomé Chatriot, Simon Denny, Harm van den Dorpel, Sarah Friend, Paul Seidler and Theo Triantafyllidis
Curator: Christopher Dake-Outhet
Mercedes-Benz Art Collection & Studio Odeonsplatz by Mercedes-Benz
Read more here
