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This edition focuses on an essential yet little known aspect of the work of the Frac Île-de-France—the encounter between artists and young publics (children and teenagers). It is essential inasmuch as it forms an integral part of the French Regional Contemporary Art Funds' mission to promote the democratisation of culture; it is little known to the extent that it is not intended to be made visible to quite the same degree than an exhibition.
L'Antenne, the educational department of the Frac Île-de-France / Le Plateau brings together artists and young audiences in experiment-based workshops, both in the framework of schools (from nurseries to high schools) and reaching out to individuals (aged six to twelve). The participating artists are connected to the programme of exhibitions and events of the Frac Île-de- France, whether at Le Plateau or through the collection exhibited outside the institution's own walls. Few of them are familiar with art pedagogy, which explains why the workshops are often a mutual discovery. This initial contact is a new experience, both for the young audiences we aim to familiarise with contemporary art and for the artists. The artists then conceive a project based on their own work and interests, which participants can appropriate on their own terms.
“Memento”, which comprises seven chapters, is the name of a series of projects organised over the course of one year and dealing more or less directly with the concept of memory. Each of these projects favoured a unique artistic exploration over a variation on a theme. The interviews with the artists provide a glimpse into the heart of each project, its highlights and the questions it raised (as there was no obligation to produce a result). The encounter took precedence over the object, opening a vast field of possibilities and unexpected events. Three texts relating to the project proposals provide readers with further information.
