Inspired by Francis Alÿs’ work Le Temps du sommeil (1996). ‘For his exhibition at IMMA Alÿs presents his on-going series Le Temps du Sommeil, which he began in 1996 and which currently comprises 111 small-scale paintings. Accompanied by instructions and postcards which resemble a diary, the work relates in an oblique way to visions of games and exercises seen in many of his actions and films.’
‘In 1993, while in Mexico City, Alÿs described his working process "…I spend a lot of time walking around the city… The initial concept for a project often emerges during a walk. As an artist, my position is akin to that of a passer-by constantly trying to situate myself in a moving environment. My work is a succession of notes and guides. The invention of a language goes together with the invention of a city. Each of my interventions is another fragment of the story that I am inventing, of the city that I am mapping." ’ (IMMA)