Doğa Çal "Knit the City"

The participatory performance “Knit the City” by Doğa Çal centers on the desire to explore the aesthetics of co-creation, the use of one’s activity, strength, and will, as well as making joint decisions and bringing them to fruition. Doğa Çal creates an open space at Jakobi Gallery, where visitors can participate, experiment, and in the process, discuss the impact and aesthetics of their actions in various relational and power dynamics.

At the heart of the participatory performance are giant knitting needles, which require at least three people to use. Questions such as what to knit and how to do it together with others will find answers through the collective actions of all participants at the exhibition.

What happens in the gallery is neither a learning environment nor a political statement. It is an artistic process and an independent space where predefined roles and expectations are abandoned, and freedom of action, will, and choice are explored. Each participating group represents a different approach and dynamic, and this co-creation becomes a functional and conceptual practice, uniting materials, ideas, and relationships into a shared aesthetic experience. The artist is dedicated to themes of sustainability and uses easily accessible materials in her work. The exhibition’s methods were developed by Doğa Çal in collaboration with Finnish artist Mette Matilda.

Doğa Çal (born 1995) focuses on utilizing co-creation processes and the potential of environments in her work. A key aspect of her practice is exploring family relationships and the individual’s connection to the environment. Her tools include video and sound installations, participatory performances, and environmental interventions. Doğa studied philosophy in Ankara, Turkey (Middle East Technical University, BA), contemporary art in Istanbul (Nerimat Polat Contemporary Art Studio), and Helsinki (University of Arts Helsinki, MA). She currently lives and works in Helsinki.

Join us to explore how co-creation can expand our understanding of creativity and human relationships. We look forward to welcoming you with open hearts and creative minds! The communal creation will take place at Jakobi Gallery from Tuesday to Friday, 16:00–18:00.

Time and Location:
Jakobi Gallery, Jakobi 52, Tartu
The gallery is open Tuesday to Friday from 13:00 to 18:00
Co-creation is available daily from 16:00 to 18:00
The performance’s grand finale will take place on Friday, April 11th, from 17:00 to 18:00

Contact:
Keret Altpere phone: +372 507 6508