A quirky art exhibition titled "What Hangs Doesn't Disturb the Vacuuming II" will showcase humorous installations and sound art at the Graficum studio in Peiting, featuring modified robot vacuums that have been transformed into speaking art objects. The exhibition, running from November 14-16, represents a collaborative effort between local artist Peter Mayr and sound artist Greulix Schrank from Murnau.
The centerpiece of the exhibition features robot vacuums that have been completely reimagined as artistic installations. These devices, which might initially appear to be robot vacuums or rusty rain barrel lids, will creep across the floor while making sounds as part of a joint performance piece by Mayr and Schrank. "These are actually converted and talking robot vacuums. Greulix is exactly the right person for this kind of nonsense," explains artist Peter Mayr. "I can transform a plastic robot vacuum to look rusty, but he's the specialist for sound and sensors."
Greulix Schrank, who hails from Murnau, began his creative journey as a punk drummer and now operates a sound studio for music, performance, and theater alongside co-sound artist Christian Taison Heiss under the name Portmanteau. Schrank previously showcased some of his thoughtful electro-acoustic sound sculptures at the Graficum during an exhibition called "Glänzende Aussichten" (Bright Prospects) a year and a half ago, and several of these pieces will be featured again in the current show.
Beyond the speaking robot vacuums, Mayr and Schrank have developed another collaborative project: birdhouses constructed from sawed-up oil paintings depicting Alpine idylls, equipped with random sounds and quirky stories. "Because each of us somehow has a bird," Mayr explains the concept behind this unusual creation. Despite the apparent absurdity, there's a deeper meaning to the seemingly nonsensical work. "What can we as artists actually do in times like these? We have a role as a connecting link in society. And we have nothing but our humor," Mayr reflects.
This philosophical approach extends to Mayr's other works in the exhibition, including a globe positioned on a Bunsen burner, which exemplifies his commentary on contemporary issues through artistic expression. The exhibition will also feature objects and installations by Matthias Rodach from Dießen, paper works by Endy Hupperich from Mexico City, and illustrations and objects by Dirk Eckert from Herrsching.
The exhibition opens on Friday, November 14, at 7 PM, followed by public viewing hours from 11 AM to 6 PM on both Saturday and Sunday. A special highlight will be Saturday evening's concert featuring violist and composer Evi Keglmaier, known for her work with Nockherberg, Hochzeitskapelle, and formerly Zwirbeldirn, performing alongside skateboard-riding zither player Manuel Kuthan. Both musicians share a preference for unique chords, wordplay, and folkloric minimalism. The concert begins at 7 PM.
Following the weekend exhibition, the show will remain open during weekday mornings specifically for school groups, with several classes already registered according to Mayr. The artist notes that there have been initial inquiries and bookings for educational visits. In January, the exhibition will travel to Berg am Starnberger See, where it will be displayed at the old town hall, extending the reach of this unconventional artistic collaboration that challenges traditional boundaries between technology, humor, and contemporary art commentary.
