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If we observe what is happening in the world of contemporary art today, we obviously realize that many artists are facing evident difficulties. These differ from place to place, but they are, nevertheless, difficulties. In the so-called Western world in the countries where there is great activity in contemporary art (events, programs, institutions, scholarships, residencies, biennales, galleries, a market, collectors)- there are many artists, and in their concern to maintain an active presence in this world they sometimes consume part of themselves trying to participate in events, to create something different that will impress or provoke viewers. On the other hand, there are artists who for geopolitical and economic reasons do not have easy access to the art world establishment, which has for centuries now has been driven by the rules of the Western market. These artists cannot easily show their work. Because, however, they are outside the competitive milieu, their creative processes are sometimes more honorable and sincere. There are moments when all artists have to face disappointment, but dialogue is equally important for the artists of both worlds. All societies are tending towards some sort of homogenization of daily life, communications have become simpler and digital technology and the internet have almost nullified time. It is the very concept of "heterotopias" that could add a new dimension to the concept of globalization. There is much talk today about globalization. I do not think that it harbors substantial dangers; it is, rather, the very evolution of our lives, and this evolution cannot easily be overturned in democratic societies. It is, however, certain that the concept of time is not what it used to be. Today, it is not so much time as place, and the movement from place to place, that is important, in the past, only caravans and soldiers moved from place to place then came the explorers and the emigrants. Today, we are all on the road, because this is what out mode of life requires. It was the West that forged the path from colonialism to globalization. The very real danger that the war against terrorism might be transformed into a clash of civilizations might be avoided by safe-guarding coequal dialogue among cultures. And I believe that the Biennnale will illuminate and show off the place that is and was Thessaloniki , and how to welcome other, different places and cultures that will communicat through the wonderful common language of art. MARIA TSANTSANOGLOU |