Running Man: A Retrospective of Daniel Bălănescu's Artistic Practice
What a wonderful evening we had celebrating the opening of "Running Man", Daniel Balanescu’s much-anticipated exhibition, at the Romanian Cultural Institute in London.
It was a real joy to welcome so many of Daniel’s friends, colleagues and art lovers, including members of the wonderful Oxford community who travelled to London for the preview. Seeing so many familiar faces come together to celebrate Daniel and his work made the evening all the more special.
The exhibition was opened by RCI London Director Aura Woodward, followed by curator Katie Baxendale, who shared touching reflections on her friendship with Daniel and her longstanding admiration for his work. Daniel himself then spoke about the story behind this project that began more than 30 years ago and has since inspired and connected communities across generations and geographies.
More than a retrospective, "Running Man" invites us to reflect on movement as a fundamental part of human experience: how we navigate the spaces around us and encounter one another. Drawing on works created across a range of materials and scales, the exhibition explores the rhythms of urban life, the paths that connect us, and the quiet act of trust embodied in the familiar figure of the running man at a pedestrian crossing: a symbol that reminds us that we can move forward safely, together. Extending beyond the gallery walls, the exhibition also invites visitors to become part of an evolving collective artwork.
Heartfelt thanks to Daniel Bălănescu for sharing this remarkable project with us and for bringing its powerful message of connection so vividly to our audiences; to everyone who joined us and made the
evening so memorable; and to Alex Coman for these fantastic shots!
For those who couldn't join us for the opening, "Running Man" can be visited at 1 Belgrave Square until 8 September, Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Don’t forget to bring along your used train tickets to make your own contribution to this ever-evolving exhibition!
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