Gerald Straub
Mexico City has many things in common with other ‘global cities’ all over the world – and still, the periphery/the ‘countryside’ is more omnipresent than in most other megacities. In spite of pervasive gentrification, ‘informal’, ‘non-categorisable’, ‘unforeseeable’ things remain permanent features. The city works and you can count on that. And this is the same in the countryside – it works and works and works... and all at once you are in the middle of it all.
Part of my work also took me to the environs of Mexico City (during the elections in the Estado de Mexico) – I can only recommend you to get out of the city and spend time elsewhere.
But, first of all, let me say something that is important to me: It is a luxury to be able to partake in this complex city and this fascinating country at all. Therefore I appeal to all (whinging) residency participants (no matter where): appreciation, appreciation, appreciation! Whoever is still complaining (while enjoying high standards), is in the wrong place (probably at all times). Come on, just forget about lacking pots, wobbly chairs, slow internet and all that stuff! It is by no means a matter of course that there is the political will that makes sure that a residency programme exists in the first place.
| 1. | Dos & don’ts in this place: |
| Dos: See unforeseeable things as part of your plans, actively link up with networks / also attend non-art events Take breaks (there are uncountable oases/courtyards, parks, museums inviting you to linger), Mexico City is full of trees! Don’ts: Flouting security recommendations Walking alone by night |
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| 2. | Where you can buy great supplies: |
| Markets as a source of inspiration and treasure trove for all kinds of things Walking up and down the centre |
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| 3. | On art at my residency location: |
| Visits to all major museums and institutions – from the Cineteca Nacional to the Museo de la Ciudad de Mexico – are absolutely recommendable; Openings of exhibitions (usually on the last Saturday of the month) Very inspiring and exemplary for contemporary art production: Pedro Reyes Institutions/artist-run spaces: SOMA, MUCA, Casa Maauad, etc. (examples: www.frieze.com/article/critics-guide-mexico-city-0) |
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| 4. | Around the studio – this is where I go shopping, drink a coffee and get the best lunch specials within walking distance: |
| For my research/work I spent much time outside Mexico City ("Estado de Mexico") so that I do not have any extra hints for the vicinity of the embassy (with this place certainly being a good haven of peace). | |
| 5. | Where I like to spend the evening (dinner, drinks and best sound): |
| We have very similar preferences - so I can only follow the taste of my colleague Marlene Hausegger - great tips for the evening were, also for me: The Café Anzengruber of Mexico City: La Covadonga Hipster stronghold, but great local food and drinks: La Parnita The coolest bar/mezcaleria: El Bósforo Surreal after-after-after-hours dance hall: Barbazul + Go to parties / always accept private invitations |
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| 6. | What I would have liked to know about the studio already at the start of my residency: |
| Tip: Read about the history of Mexico. |
Website resident: geraldstraub.wordpress.com