‘Breaking even’ is an expression that refers to a financial result where there is neither profit nor loss. It not only points out the economic reality many independent publishers face, where covering costs without profit is often considered a success, but also speaks to the delicate balance that fairs must navigate between resisting commercial pressures and finding ways to be economically sustainable. What modes of being and subjectivities do art book fairs enable, and what kind of futures do they make possible (or impossible)? Participants share their publishing practices and collectively reflect on this context’s potential by meeting, creating, and sharing curiosity.
‘Breaking even!’ is an initiative of artist and Rijksakademie alumna Reyhan Lál in collaboration with the Rijksakademie residents, alumni, team and special guests.
