Founded in 2010 the Institute for Provocation IFP stands before you. It’s a Beijing based independent art organization and project space. Imagine a place where theory meets artistic practice. That’s the IFP.
The IFP isn’t just an art space. It’s a hub for cross-disciplinary knowledge. It’s a place where cultural exchange and production thrive. It’s a collective effort. The IFP organizes artist residencies research projects discussions exhibitions workshops and publications. They consider the relationship between independent art spaces and society. It’s a dynamic interaction.
This isn’t just any organization. Chen Shuyu and Els Silvrants-Barclay founded it. It evolved from Theater in Motion a platform for performing arts. Max Gerthel joined in 2011 expanding the IFP with new partnerships. He helped with residencies and public events in its current location in Beijing’s old city center.
The Black Sesame Space opened in 2014. It solidified the IFP’s status as an established independent art space. They produce experimental exhibitions performances and projects. They collaborate with local and international artists. It’s a place of constant creation.
Since 2017 the IFP operates as a collective. Members include architect and editor Chen Shuyu filmmaker and art critic Song Yi and artist Hu Wei. Advisors include architect designer and curator Max Gerthel curator Els Silvrants-Barclay and curator researcher and artist Umi. The IFP boasts a wide network of artists researchers and makers both in China and internationally. This network provides support and collaboration for residents. The interaction between resident artists and the IFP creates mutual provocation friction and cooperation.
The Institute for Provocation IFP is more than a building. It’s a living organism. It moves at the speed of thought exchanges. It explores what art can be and do. It reaches a wide range of viewers through its inputs and outputs. It is a testament to the power of art to provoke inspire and connect. So step inside and let the provocation begin.