How strongly are we influenced by our background? What made us become who we are? Could or should we free ourselves from our descent?
The artists Constantin Hartenstein and Clemens Wilhelm share an interest in the construction of personal and collective identities whose changes and shapes are determined by social, economical and political processes. They define the background of an individual as a personal space.
In PETER IST TOT and GO WEST, found objects are connected to fictional and documentary narrations. Individual biographical references to the protagonists as well as the artists are drawn; but one can also discover an intentionally applied lack of detail. The exemplary character of these stories does not draw its strength from a singular moment or event, but rather from its multi-layered references and newly structured contextualizations. In KEYSTONE, Constantin Hartenstein highlights how monuments function as symbols of identification in a globalized, consumer-oriented society; and how they influence the perception of public space. Clemens Wilhelm demonstrates the subversive potential of the ambiguity of language with the German word play MACHT NICHTS, which he displays in various advertisement media such as airplane banner, badges and LED-Screen all over Berlin.
scenic reading / Die Extremisten / 08/12/2012 / 8 pm
As a special event, the scenic reading of the theatre play "The Extremists" by C.J. Hopkins (director: Jasna Miletic) connects with the artists' work through the means of satire and demasking language connotations; serving as a tool for identity politics. The standards that shape the nature of a group are questioned through the use of an example of a fictional US-American political talk show.
screening / Sandalen mit Socken / 09/12/2012 / 6 pm
The closing event will be the screening program "Sandalen mit Socken • 7 x Deutschland"; which shows a selection of films by German artists who reflect on the peculiarities of their home country. Seven precise views on German traditions and rituals: the national anthem, the German language class, the home village, traditions, vacations, favourite jokes, and a men's choir. A scepticism towards the idea of "Heimat" and a slight uncanniness unite with humor. One thing is for sure: you are allowed to look at Germany with a chuckle.
Christoph Schlingensief / Michael Brynntrup / Constantin Hartenstein / Julia Charlotte Richter / Stefan Ewald / Clemens Wilhelm / Rasso Hilber
The exhibition is part of the format km temporaer / collaborations and was developed in collaboration with artists Clemens Wilhelm and Constantin Hartenstein.
