Superorganism at Tartu—the European Capital of Culture 2024
October 18–November 23, 2024
As the European Capital of Culture 2024, Tartu will host the Superorganism event, featuring an international exhibition, symposium, and storybook at the Aparaaditehas cultural center from October 18 to November 23, 2024. Organized by the “Magic Carpets” platform, which unites 17 European cultural organizations, this event delves into the superorganism concept and its implications for both individual and collective existence.
The term “superorganism” originated over a century ago to describe social insect colonies functioning as a unified entity. Today, it encompasses diverse biological systems like beehives, coral reefs, and the human microbiome. The Superorganism event transcends its biological roots, representing a complex interplay of meanings that resonate across sociological and philosophical discussions. It explores society as a living organism and examines the balance between collective well-being and individual rights within broader ecosystems. This concept also offers valuable insights into addressing urgent environmental challenges through collective action.
Curated by a team of 17 curators from 17 different European countries, the Superorganism event mirrors the diversity and collaborative ethos of the “Magic Carpets” platform. The event embodies the values of Tartu 2024—uniqueness, sustainability, awareness, and co-creation—igniting contemplation about the superorganism’s complexities and highlighting its relevance in our interconnected world.
The event will manifest in three key components:
International Exhibition: Showcasing diverse artworks by 25 emerging artists who participated in the “Magic Carpets” residencies from 2021 to 2024. Their works, ranging from photography and installations to performances and videos, will be displayed in various galleries and public spaces within Aparaaditehas, inviting visitors to explore the dynamics of co-existence, sustainability, human rights, and the negotiation between unity and individuality.
Symposium in Three Acts: A one-day symposium on October 19, 2024, will delve into the philosophical, social, and ecological dimensions of the superorganism concept through interactive workshops, discussions, and performances. Thirteen distinguished speakers will offer their perspectives, engaging the audience in a multi-sensory exploration of the theme.
Companion Storybook: Documenting the journey of artists, curators, and communities within the “Magic Carpets” residencies, the storybook will reflect on the art world’s current state and record all artworks from the exhibition and projects created during 2021-2024.
The Aparaaditehas, a former factory now transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, provides a fitting venue for the Superorganism event. Its layered history and dynamic spaces resonate with themes of transformation, interconnectedness, and collective creativity.
The opening weekend on October 18-19, 2024, will feature the exhibition’s opening and the one-day symposium, inviting the public to engage with the theme in a comprehensive and inclusive manner. With the slogan “We are all a superorganism,” the event emphasizes our interconnectedness and shared responsibility for the planet’s future.
