Probing and Occupying the Hot Dog-Kiosk: The Evolution of the Archiving Instrument and Spatial Implants

The exhibited installation explores the often unregarded and ‘infraordinary’ function of the classic Danish hot dog-kiosk – currently disappearing due to processes of gentrification – through a two-fold spatial implant: one that inhabits a hot dog-kiosk bar in Aarhus and another the exhibition. The hot dog-kiosk forms a vital place for everyday informal interaction and social coexistence between people. It has functions besides its practical use: through events in real-time and depositions over time it articulates relationships between familiar strangers and creates a sense of collective being.

The practice of making is used as a vehicle for generating and unfolding knowledge and giving shape to theories and ideas. The parallel critical spatial practice and theoretical parts informs each other, acting as ‘relays’ to move forward to new understandings. It points inwards, but at the same time in a multitude of directions, being fragmented and maintaining a productive ambiguity. The knowledge produced along the way, the output and the architectural installations themselves envisions a potential recalibration of the social dimension of the city.