The aim of the performance was to highlight two phenomena. The first phenomenon pertains to the art market in Serbia, which does not conform to the traditional concept of an art market. The second phenomenon is more psychological in nature and relates to people’s desire to possess pieces of art that they themselves are depicted in (as seen in the case of the exhibition PAIRS). These two phenomena, exemplified through the auction process, shed light on most relationships within the Serbian art world, in one of the region’s economically challenged countries. People tend to purchase art only if it is exceptionally affordable, or if they have significantly more disposable income. The first group rarely or never buys art, while the second group of wealthier individuals, often referred to as ‘transitional elites,’ may invest in ‘respectable kitsch,’ driven by trends set by certain commercial dealers and galleries. The act of art collecting itself represents another phenomenon.

The performance concluded when all 48 photos had passed through the auction process. At that point, P delivered closing remarks, and M handled the administrative tasks and calculated the earnings. Among the many questions raised after the performance, one important inquiry remains: Who genuinely needs art, apart from the artists themselves?

AUCTION / MP_art cafe Gallery, Novi Sad, Serbia, 29 November 2007, duration: 50′ 36”