Detail: 'Touched' will consist of new art that succeeds in affecting the viewer: art that moves us in mind, body and soul.
The discussions within the curatorial team set out with the recognition that if art is to be memorable, interesting or influential it has to start by moving us. 'Touched' presents affective art, and so becomes a sketch map of the affections - passion, rage, lust, pleasure, fear and joy. Throughout history, artists have refreshed their practice through returning to these permanent motivators in the human psyche. The collapse and restructuring of financial markets in the countries formerly known as G8 has given urgency to our need for an art whose outlook is characterised by inter-dependence and mutual responsibility. Artists depend on their art touching its audience to communicate shared meaning. The erotic frisson between art and its audience is the same as that between individuals who share interests.