8 June 2024 – 6 October 2024
Art Exhibition at Bazeos Tower
Opening Saturday 8/6, 11:00-15:00
The statement “Phosphorus is Hesperus” refers to the philosophical dilemma that has its roots in the ancient Greek dual identification of Venus, as the star of Hesperus in the evening sky and as the star of Phosphorus in the morning firmament, challenging traditional notions of unambiguous identity. In other words, Phosphorus (the morning star) and Hesperus (the evening star) are two different names for the same celestial body. This observation is important in philosophical discussions, especially in the context of identity and reference, as it challenges the notion that two different names should designate two different entities. The philosopher Gottlob Frege famously used the example of Phosphorus and Hesperus to demonstrate the complexity of identity and its implications for theories of reference.
Lithuanian artists Diana Radavičiūtė and Saulius Valius embark on a journey to Naxos to converse with the late artist Klaus Pfeifer at the exhibition “Phosphorus & Hesperus – Dialogue” as part of the Naxos Festival 2024. Despite his physical absence, Klaus Pfeiffer’s timeless presence through his works at the Bazaios Tower suggests the transcendence of simple physical existence. This duality of absence-presence serves as a thematic framework for the artists to explore the complexity of identity and existence.
“The two of us, Diana and Saulius, come from Lithuania to Naxos to discuss this phenomenon with our beloved Klaus Pfeiffer, but he is no longer on the island… and at the same time has been everywhere for a long time.” The artists’ dialogue with Klaus unfolds against the backdrop of the morning light, embodied by Phosphorus, and the evening glow, represented by Hesperus. This symbolic representation of light not only underlines the temporal extent of the dialogue, but also serves as a metaphor for inspiration and diversity. The shifting dynamics between Phosphorus and Hesperus reflect the fluidity and ambiguity inherent in statements of identity, highlighting the different nature of perception and interpretation.
As Daiana and Saulius engage in their dialogue with Klaus, the visual representations that emerge remain unpredictable, reflecting the elusive nature of identity and truth. The artists use a variety of media and techniques to convey their exploration, inviting viewers to contemplate the interplay between presence and absence, light and darkness, and the different perspectives that emerge.
The Bazeos Tower, which serves as a meeting place, becomes a space for the convergence of philosophical research and artistic expression. The architecture and historical significance of the tower add another semantic level to the dialogue, here and now.
The exhibition is under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and the Embassy of Lithuania in Greece.
Curated by: Britta Breuers – Marios Vazaios
Organization: AION Cultural Organization – Naxos Festival 2024
Venue: Bazeos Tower
(12th km. of Naxos Town-Agiassos Road, T.22850 31402)
Duration: 8/6 – 6/10/2024
Opening hours: Daily except Monday,
10:00-17:00
Ε-mail: naxosculture@gmail.com