The Artist Has to Live Like Anybody Else

During his solo exhibition at Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art in Rotterdam, New Zealand–born artist Billy Apple presented two public artworks in 2009. One of these was The Artist Has to Live Like Anybody Else, executed as a massive vinyl sticker measuring 12.18 by 6.50 meters. The work was installed on the façade of the Weenapoint B building, directly opposite Rotterdam Central Station.

The phrase “The Artist Has to Live Like Anybody Else” is a recurring statement in Billy Apple’s oeuvre, addressing the artist’s economic position and everyday reality. By placing this sentence prominently in public space, Apple quite literally brought the discussion about the role of art and artists in society out into the streets.

The installation was commissioned by Sculpture International Rotterdam and Witte de With and produced by Mothership. Mothership was responsible for the participation process, coordination, and execution.