refus, 2014

"Refus/ Refusal", which bears a title reflecting the artist's stance on the subject, was conceived as part of the exhibition "Des Choses en Moins, Des Choses en Plus [Things Less, Things More]" at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris, France. For twenty days, twelve hours a day, Ianês engaged in conversations with visitors while seated at a standard table and bench provided by the institution. The discussions explored the role of art and art institutions in society, their intersections with politics and the economy, and the dichotomy of art as a public versus a private good. The impact of the privatisation of art institutions and the commodification of art within society was also a central theme of these stimulating dialogues. Palais de Tokyo was among the first French institutions to receive substantial funding from both public funds and private investment from companies. After the conversations, Ianês offered participants a unique proposition: they could have the value of their entry ticket refunded in exchange for anonymously sharing their reason for doing so. This innovative approach to audience engagement added an element of intrigue to the experience. The participants then received a signed confirmation from the artist and could have their money returned to the institution's cashier.

CNAP – Centre National des Arts Plastiques, France.