A Dice's Tale

This exhibition aimed to explore the role of randomness in the creative process and challenge traditional notions of artistic control. By showcasing works shaped by the roll of a dice, the exhibition highlighted the beauty and unpredictability that can arise from relinquishing control. It encouraged visitors to engage with the concept of chance as an artistic tool and a reflection of life's inherent unpredictability. The exhibition aimed to foster a deeper appreciation for the unexpected and inspire viewers to consider the possibilities that emerged when fate guided creativity. Ultimately, it invited audiences to embrace the unknown and find meaning in the serendipitous outcomes of chance-driven art.

Marc Thalberg is a contemporary artist who has taken the element of chance to a new level, integrating randomness as a central part of his creative process. His work revolves around relinquishing control, allowing the unpredictable dice roll to dictate the direction and form of his pieces. Thalberg's innovative approach challenges traditional ideas of artistic intention and authorship, making each of his works a unique collaboration between the artist and fate.

Thalberg begins with a set of possibilities—whether it's a choice of colours, shapes, or materials—and assigns each option a number corresponding to the sides of a die. The roll's outcome then determines the next step in his creation process. This method not only introduces an element of unpredictability but also forces the artist to adapt and embrace results that may diverge from his original vision. The dice mediate between intention and spontaneity, pushing the boundaries of creativity by incorporating an unknown element.

In his paintings, for example, Thalberg might roll the dice to decide the size of the brushstroke, the colour palette, or even the sequence of layers. In sculptural work, the dice might determine the placement of components, the materials used, or the piece's orientation. This process imbues each artwork with a sense of dynamic tension, where the final outcome is as much a surprise to Thalberg as it is to the viewer.

Marc Thalberg is a German artist who lives and works in Munich, Germany. He recently opened a studio complex for artists to rent as work and exhibition spaces. He engages in community work and is part of the collective Not Another White Cube.