Exploring 'Layer of Wildness': An Art Exhibition at CRAC Alsace

The upcoming art exhibition titled 'Layer of Wildness' will take place at CRAC Alsace from June 19 to September 21, 2025. This unique showcase features the works of several contemporary artists, including Caretto & Spagna, Seulgi Lee, Joshua Merchan Rodriguez, Mariana Murcia, Marie Raffn, and Jessica Warboys. The exhibition is curated by Sandrine Desmoulin, Maria Claudia Gamboa, Sarah Menu, and Richard Neyroud, who aim to engage the public in a dialogue about the natural environment and the significance of the Ill River, which flows through the region.

According to the curatorial team, the exhibition invites visitors to begin their journey at the source of the Ill River and to reflect on its course and the ecological narratives it embodies. 'Our goal is to encourage audiences to reconsider their relationship with this river that is integral to our daily lives,' stated Sandrine Desmoulin, one of the exhibition's curators. 'The river is not merely a physical entity; it is a source of memories and experiences that shape our understanding of nature.'

Each artist contributes a distinct perspective on the river's essence. For instance, Joshua Merchan Rodriguez explores the theme of erosion by capturing the dynamic forces of the river’s flow in his work. Seulgi Lee presents amulet flasks that encapsulate the river’s essence, while Mariana Murcia transforms spring water into a living beverage, emphasizing the importance of hydration and connection to nature.

Marie Raffn utilizes textile techniques to reveal the river's hidden body, and Caretto & Spagna collect soil fragments to infuse energy into their installations. Jessica Warboys connects historical narratives to the river by referencing a statue of Joan of Arc submerged in the Ill during wartime, thereby intertwining memory and art.

The exhibition is organized under the auspices of 'l’III,' a collaborative initiative involving CEAAC, La Kunsthalle, and CRAC Alsace, and is supported by the French Ministry of Culture and the Danish Arts Foundation. The opening will feature a garden party on June 19, with a free shuttle service provided from Art Basel, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the event.

Historically, the Ill River has been a vital resource for the communities along its banks, offering both ecological and cultural sustenance. The artists’ interpretations aim to revitalize this historical narrative and engage viewers in a deeper appreciation of their natural surroundings.

The exhibition also raises essential questions about environmental conservation and the ways in which art can foster a greater awareness of ecological issues. Through interactive installations and thought-provoking pieces, 'Layer of Wildness' seeks to create an immersive experience that encourages reflection on humanity's impact on the environment.

As the exhibition approaches, anticipation builds not only for the artistic contributions but also for the broader implications it holds for environmental awareness and cultural engagement in contemporary society. Art institutions and environmental advocates alike are encouraged to partake in this dialogue, as the synergy between art and nature becomes increasingly relevant in today’s world.