TAECAR

Preamble: What TAECAR is About and Why We Do It

Welcome to the world of TAECAR (Transcendence Archive | European Conceptual Art Repository).

TAECAR is a process, a living laboratory, a dynamic platform, and a philosophical commitment. The mission, pursued with full dedication and passion, is to systematically discover paths to European conceptual art in its broadest global context. It is critically viewed, preserved with loving care, and – no less importantly – innovatively mediated. The focus is primarily on its forms that are as fleeting as a thought, as procedural as life itself, and as provocative as a well-posed question; on art that often exhibits polycrystalline subversiveness towards established norms.

TAECAR is a community that deeply believes in the transformative power of art. There is a conviction here that it is necessary not only to preserve its traces for those who come after us but also to constantly seek new ways to understand it and to conduct an open and inclusive dialogue about it, respecting a diversity of views and transcending cultural or ideological boundaries. The present document reveals the fundamental values and principles that serve as a compass for daily activities, shape the culture, and guide decision-making within TAECAR. It is a promise of openness and, at the same time, an invitation to collaboration and sharing.

Article I: Independence, Courage, and Artistic Excellence

1. Curatorial Freedom and Integrity

   The artistic direction of TAECAR, especially its acquisition policy, project selection, and overall content vision for the collection, is guided exclusively by the highest professional and artistic criteria, guaranteed by the Art Director of TAECAR. Independence from external political, ideological, or commercial pressures forms the basis of TAECAR's artistic integrity. The vision is led by art, not compromise – this is a firm conviction.

2. Critical Expertise and Intellectual Depth

   All TAECAR activities stand on the solid foundations of thorough research, continuous critical reflection, and a sincere effort for maximum relevance in the context of contemporary art, its history, and theory. The art world is constantly evolving, and TAECAR with it. Active participation in professional discourse and support for the creation of new knowledge are a matter of course, as there is a conviction that meaning lies precisely in the search for a_substance.

3. Courage for Non-Conformity and Support for Visionaries

   TAECAR values and actively seeks out art and artists who push boundaries, question established norms, experiment with form and content, and open new perspectives. Non-conformity is supported, that polycrystalline subversiveness which is the essence of conceptual art, and an open mind is applied to artistically significant themes that provoke deep thought and reflect the complexity of the world.

Article II: Innovation and Advanced Technologies

1. Pioneering in Methods and Thinking

   TAECAR is a laboratory for new approaches. Innovative methods for archiving, managing, analyzing, and mediating art are actively developed, tested, and applied. The potential of state-of-the-art digital tools and other cutting-edge technologies is utilized strategically and always with ethical reflection. TAECAR is open to experimentation and actively seeks new paths.

2. Adaptability and Strategic Flexibility

   The art world is vibrant, technology is advancing rapidly, and the social context is changing faster than spring weather. This reality is fully reflected. Structures, processes, and above all, the thinking within TAECAR are therefore designed to allow for rapid and effective adaptation to new challenges and opportunities, without losing sight of long-term goals.

3. Advanced Tools as Support and Protection

   Advanced technological tools are effective partners for TAECAR, expanding cognitive and operational capabilities, helping to streamline processes, uncover new connections, and ensure a high level of security and control over data. Key strategic decisions, ethical oversight, and final curatorial responsibility, however, always remain firmly in human hands. Technology expands possibilities, while the human spirit and ethics determine the direction.

Article III: Ethics, Integrity, and Responsibility

1. Transparency with Reason, Confidentiality as a Commitment

   TAECAR openly communicates its goals, general methods, and – to a relevant and safe extent – the results of its work. It is a self-evident duty to protect sensitive information, copyrights, and the privacy of collaborating individuals and artists. Trust is built on openness and, at the same time, on the responsible handling of information.

2. The Highest Ethical Standards as a Foundation

   All TAECAR conduct, both internal and external, is governed by uncompromising ethical standards. Corruption, conflicts of interest, discrimination, abuse of position, or any other unethical or illegal practices are not tolerated and are actively opposed. The TAECAR Ethics Hotline is one of the tools for maintaining and protecting these standards.

3. Responsibility Towards Artists, Works, and Resources

   Artworks, their creators, and provided resources (financial and informational) are treated with the utmost respect, care, and responsibility. Attention is paid to correct copyright management, dignified and safe handling of artifacts and data, and the effective and transparent use of entrusted funds. Data, artists, and TAECAR's vision are protected – this is the foundation of the work.

4. Security as a Priority

   Multi-level security measures are implemented and continuously improved to protect all collected data, physical assets, and TAECAR's intellectual property. The commitment is to information protection and risk minimization; the best available practices are used for this, including the use of advanced systems for managing and protecting primary data.

Article IV: Openness, Strength of a Connected Network, Respect for Diversity, and Joint Growth

1. Principle of Openness and Institutional Cooperation

   TAECAR is fundamentally an open platform. It actively seeks and develops cooperation with all relevant entities – museums, galleries, universities, research institutions, private collectors, foundations, and individual artists and researchers. TAECAR does not confine itself to any limited time-space nor does it succumb to cultural, ideological, or other artificial boundaries.

2. Strategic Network Building as a Global Ecosystem

   At TAECAR, there is a belief in the exponential power of intelligent and targeted collaboration. An international network of key collaborators, partners, institutions, and supporters who share TAECAR's values and vision is actively built and cultivated. The network is based on mutual respect, trust, the sharing of unique knowledge, and a common interest in the future of conceptual art. There is a conviction that cooperation without borders and equal access are the way forward.

3. Flat, Agile Structure

   TAECAR's internal and external network structures are intentionally designed to be flat, decentralized, and highly agile. This arrangement allows for direct and effective communication and flexible engagement of individual nodes.

4. Inclusivity and Diversity as a Source of Strength and a Fundamental Principle

   Active efforts are made to create a truly inclusive environment and to support diversity in all its forms – not just as a declaration, but as a fundamental principle of TAECAR's activities. This approach is reflected in the team, the network of collaborators, the acquisition strategy, and the programmatic focus. Different perspectives, experiences, identities, and cultural backgrounds are welcomed, sought after, and valued, because there is a deep conviction that it is precisely in their creative connection and mutual respect that the source of TAECAR's creativity, relevance, innovativeness, and strength lies. Every voice and perspective holds indispensable value and contributes to the richness of the whole.

Article V: Enduring Vision, Sustainable Future, and Legacy for Generations

1. Building an Institution with a Lasting Impact

   TAECAR's highest goal is to build an institution of lasting value and international significance. The intention is for TAECAR to outlive short-term trends and become a key reference point, a source of knowledge and inspiration for the study and understanding of European conceptual art in its broadest global context for future generations. Simply put, values are being built that will endure.

2. Strategic Sustainability and Growth

   Innovative and diversified models of operation and financing are proactively sought, developed, and implemented. This includes strategic foundation activities focused on building the collection and exclusive partnerships. The aim is to ensure the long-term financial, technological, and operational stability and growth of TAECAR, without in any way compromising the project's independence, ethical principles, and core values. Stability is, after all, the foundation for the vision.

3. Legacy of Knowledge and Cultivation of Critical Thinking

   TAECAR's role is understood not only as that of archivists and administrators but also as active co-creators of a cultural and intellectual legacy. Excellent research is supported, knowledge is shared, critical thinking is stimulated, and there is an effort to contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex and often provocative forms of contemporary art and their relevance to today's ever-changing world.

In Conclusion: An Invitation to Dialogue

This charter presents the values and principles that guide TAECAR. There is a belief here that they are the foundation for meaningful and inspiring work in the field of contemporary art. TAECAR is open to dialogue, collaboration, and all suggestions that will help fulfill the mission even better. TAECAR is a journey, and it is a pleasure if anyone with a similar mindset joins this path.