Free Forms Of Arts: Art beyond improvisation.
Philosophy and principles of Free Forms of Arts, an artistic movement based on setting aside self-centredness in favor of a dialogue at eye level, involving many art forms (dance, poetry, music, etc.). Through spontaneity and free expression, the artists go far beyond ‘improvisation’.
Seven points characterize the joint creation within the framework of Free Forms of Arts:
1 – The dissolution of classical boundaries
Traditional genres have been dissolving since the late 20th century. In music, for example, a variety of new hybrid forms have emerged instead of the previously ‘clear’ categorisations of classical music, jazz, rock and so on. In the context of Free Forms of Arts, further genre boundaries are being crossed and the combination of music with other arts such as dance, poetry and visual arts is being cultivated.
Important artists, such as the dancer Christiana Fusillo, or the musicians Antonis Anissegos, Emil Groß, Radim Hanousek or Paul Rogers frequently transgress these classical boundaries within the framework of Free Forms of Arts.
2 – Mobility and networks
Independent art forms are often non-commercial. Artists struggle with financial challenges and limited mobility. The coronavirus pandemic and economic crisis have emphasized the importance of a stable network to help artists act independently and flexibly.
3 – Open dialogue & risk as a creative principle
Free Forms rejects hierarchical structures in art and favours equal exchange. The movement encourages artists and audiences to confront the unknown – without prior agreements, without a concept, without the pressure of perfection. This requires courage, openness and the acceptance of ‚mistakes’.
4 – The role of time and space
A central idea is to wait and listen to what emerges – a kind of controlled emptiness that enables creative processes. Artists should see themselves both as individuals and as part of a collective that is constantly changing.
5 – Process instead of product
The art of Free Forms of Arts is never finished, but an ongoing process. Concerts and events are not intended as finished works, but as spontaneous, unpredictable interactions in which artists and audience develop new forms of expression together.
6 – Free dialogues as a ‘manifestation of creativity’
Since the 1960s, new forms of improvised music-making have become established, influenced by artists such as Derek Bailey, Evan Parker and Maggie Nichols. This music cannot be clearly categorised, but is created in the field of tension between artistic ability, freedom and reflection.
7 – Against commercialisation and monoculture
The movement sees itself as an alternative to the one-sided, consumer-orientated art world. It favours diversity, interdisciplinarity and the breaking up of established norms.
Conclusion:
Free Forms of Arts is a radically open and process-oriented art movement that focuses on artistic collaboration beyond improvisation and genres, risk and the exchange between artists and the public. It is not about perfection or product, but about honest experience and creation in real time.
Further thoughts on the philosophy of Free Forms of Arts – written by members of the movement – can be found at “dig down deep“.