In between – Somewhere in between. In the in-between space. In the meantime.
Where are we when we are active in the online space? Are we somewhere in between – between reality, virtuality, and fiction? How does time flow in the online world? Does it pass the same way as it does on our watches? Or does it all just happen somewhere in between? In the in-between space? In the meantime?
Today, we constantly find ourselves somewhere in-between. Every day, we navigate the boundary between everyday reality and the online world, which constantly permeates our lives. In this expanding virtual world, are we still able to distinguish where online fiction ends and reality begins? Or have we already become completely disoriented?
Martin Krupa, in his multi-channel projection, created specifically for the space of Gallery 2, works with principles that balance between reality and virtual fiction. In his long-term research, Krupa gradually explores and experiments with the form of multi-channel projection, not only in terms of its formal structure but also with its alternative narrativity and the possibilities of its deconstruction. Within the exhibition project "In Between," Krupa specifically experiments with projection surface materials, creating the illusion of a 3D projection or playing with the possibility of a reflective surface, which further fragments the overall composition.
"In Between" represents the connection between a virtual, fictional world in 3D space and a real environment, where real people and avatars meet and interact with both live and inanimate 3D models. On three projection screens, banal micro-narratives unfold, yet they exhibit signs of certain inconsistencies or incompleteness. They operate somewhere in between. They fill in the mundane. This is why Krupa's modeled world naturally invites us to explore the interconnections and relationships between individual 3D spaces and everyday situations. The mosaic structure of the individual stories provides the viewer with the opportunity to find their own narrative thread and interpretation. Similarly, as if the viewer could interpret their own story if they saw themselves somewhere in between. Somewhere "In Between."
Martin Krupa is a visual artist and educator specializing in moving images, projections, video, and light art. He graduated from the Faculty of Art and Design at Jan Evangelista Purkyně in Ústí nad Labem, where he studied in the Digital Media Studio under the guidance of Michaela Thelenová and Radek Jandera. He is currently completing his doctoral studies at the same faculty on the topic of Moving Image in Multi-channel Display. Krupa also completed his master's studies at the Theatre Faculty of JAMU in the Light Design Studio under the guidance of Pavla Beranová and Vladimír Burian. He currently leads the Fine Art Studio at the Faculty of Art and Design at Jan Evangelista Purkyně University in Ústí nad Labem, together with Barbora Hájková.
In his artistic practice, he focuses on working with moving images, combining both analog and digital technologies. His work often depicts banal situations, manipulating the narrative element to unsettle the perception of observed reality. His pieces are characterized by a tension arising from an indefinite sense of otherness and incongruity. He actively participates in group exhibitions and festivals, where he presents his projections, video installations, and light art.
Curator (Female)
Diana Kněžínková
Production
Kristýna Císařová
Markéta Müllerová
Graphic design
Adéla Bierbaumer