Paris GT Zero makes an art form of sustainability
In a unique blend of art, sports technology and sustainability, the latest exhibition at MACBA brings a fresh perspective to Barcelona’s vibrant art scene
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA), nestled in the coastal city’s vibrant El Raval neighbourhood, is currently hosting an extraordinary retrospective exhibition of local artist Daniel Steegmann Mangrané, ‘Una fulla al lloc de l’ull’ (‘A Leaf Shapes The Eye’). It’s not only a feast for the senses but also an exciting art-meets-sport collaboration, featuring an unexpected but pivotal element: Polytan’s Poligras Paris GT Zero hockey turf.
An immersive experience with a surprising ingredient
Known for installations, sculptures and augmented reality creations, Steegmann Mangrané skilfully addresses the contemporary social and ecological issues of our time, crafting immersive experiences that engage visitors on a number of sensorial, emotional and intellectual levels. A Leaf Shapes The Eye showcases the artist’s drawings, paintings, photographs, holograms, sculptures, films and installations, but also a surprising ingredient: Poligras Paris GT Zero turf, which was provided and installed by Polytan.
Where art and sport meet sustainability
In the sports world, Paris GT Zero turf is acclaimed for its playability and friction-reducing Turf Glide technology. But it also boasts impressive sustainability features – being carbon-zero, composed of 80% bio-based material (sugar cane) and developed to meet the stringent sustainability targets of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Its transition into the artistic domain is impactful in a new way, captivating art lovers with its vivid blue hue (reminiscent of Yves Klein’s signature shade), unique underfoot texture that invites interaction and strong environmental credentials, making it emblematic of a successful and purposeful partnership.
Transforming spaces and perceptions with an eye on the future
Steegmann Mangrané is delighted with the turf’s transformative impact on the exhibition space: "It's incredibly beautiful to see how people, upon entering and seeing this expanse of blue, suddenly immerse themselves in the space, engaging with the exhibition in a completely novel way."
The collaboration between Polytan and MACBA highlights a harmonious blend of innovation and sustainability. "The Poligras turf significantly elevated the sensory experience of our audience. It transformed our exhibition space, allowing visitors to physically and emotionally connect with the artwork. Its role in engaging the audience's senses was profound and beautifully palpable," says Hiuwai Chu, Head of Exhibitions at MACBA and Curator of the exhibition.
This partnership also underscores a shared commitment to sustainability, ensuring the turf's extended utility beyond the exhibition. Plans are in place to repurpose the turf in educational settings or in other cultural venues, seamlessly aligning with the themes of ecological responsibility and community engagement.
A legacy of hockey innovation
Fred van Wijk, International Sales Director at Polytan, expresses his enthusiasm for the collaboration: "We're thrilled to support this exhibition with our Paris GT Zero turf, a key component of the Paris 2024 hockey tournament. This partnership is particularly meaningful, echoing our heritage from the iconic Barcelona 1992 Olympics where we supplied hockey turf."
Polytan's connection with hockey in Catalonia is a strong one, evidenced by their sponsorship of the Federació Catalana de Hockey (Catalonia Hockey Federation) and their turf being the surface of choice for the 2022 Women’s Hockey World Cup in Amsterdam and Barcelona.
A shared vision for sustainability
The collaboration between Poligras Paris GT Zero turf, MACBA and artist Daniel Steegmann Mangrané is a striking example of cross-industry cooperation, where art, sports technology, and sustainability converge. This partnership not only enhances the sensory experience of art enthusiasts but also sets a precedent for future collaborations, showcasing the versatility and environmental responsibility of Polytan's innovative turf solutions.
See the turf up close at MACBA until 20 May 2024, then catch it in action at Paris 2024.