Titled Crossing Borders, the 3rd edition of Personal Structures served as a platform for international artists to express their personal reflections on life and existence. It transcended regional focus, fostering a sense of global unity. Swiss philosopher and leading advocate of European integration, Denis de Rougemont, envisioned a Europe united by culture, where people could connect beyond the confines of the nation-state. He recognised culture as a crucial element in the continent’s post-war recovery and healing. 

Today, the crucial role of culture in shaping the well-being of our society demands greater recognition and active support, even more so than economic growth. Building a sustainable Europe requires a balanced approach, where environmental, social, and cultural priorities are given equal weight alongside financial and economic goals. Arts and cultural activities, which nurture creative and critical thinking, are also essential in restoring public trust in the continent.

Personal Structures – Crossing Borders fostered a dialogue transcending cultural background, age, race, and gender. In an interview about her work Act Peace, created specifically for this exhibition, Yoko Ono shared, “All backgrounds are backgrounds for peace,” emphasising that “the true emotion we have is love. Love will conquer all.” These reflections highlighted the enduring power of European culture and its influence on how Europe is perceived both within and beyond its borders. The main goal was to reach beyond geographical boundaries and create an inclusive dialogue.

Borders, in the broadest sense, must be crossed for us to develop as human beings and to understand who we truly are. To cherish our differences and strengthen cultural commonalities, we must open ourselves to the world around us, sharing our thoughts without prejudice.