Happily Ever After

This exhibition catalogue features essays by Nina Björk and curators, exploring the impact of neoliberalism on emotions through various artistic expressions, while encouraging reflection on authenticity, community, and resistance.

Happily Ever After is an exhibition catalogue that delves into contemporary artistic practices through a collection of essays by Nina Björk and curators Julia Björnberg and Anna Johansson. The book showcases the works of various artists and collectives, all of whom examine the complexities of individual and collective experiences in a world increasingly defined by neoliberal values. These values often prioritize self-optimization and economic interests over emotional well-being, leading to a societal disregard for vulnerability.

The catalogue features a diverse range of artistic expressions that tackle pressing topics such as mindfulness, the implications of the welfare state, the influence of the tech industry, and the pervasive role of social media in shaping our emotions. By presenting these themes, the artists illuminate the shifting nature of how we experience and articulate our feelings, and how these changes impact our self-perception and our interactions with others.

Ultimately, Happily Ever After encourages readers to reflect on the potential of emotions to forge new futures. It emphasizes the significance of authenticity and community as forms of resistance against societal pressures. Published in collaboration with Malmö Konstmuseum, the book invites us to consider how our choices in relating to one another can shape our collective narrative and foster a more compassionate society. The catalogue features contributions from a variety of artists, including Muhammad Ali, Anita Christoffersson, and Superflex, among others, each bringing their unique perspective to this thought-provoking exploration.