TIME FOR OUTRAGE! Art in Times of Social Anger | Feminism

Can anger and rage be justified in a world riddled with oppression and inequality? Are these emotions destructive forces or vital catalysts for social change? As democracy faces crises and populism gains ground globally, these questions have sparked renewed debate. Contemporary artists have responded, using their work to navigate and challenge the pressing issues of our time.

The exhibition ‘Time for Outrage!’ in Düsseldorf explores these questions through six thematic blocks: Right-wing Shift, Trumpism, Protest, Postcolonialism, Feminism, and Discrimination. Across a diverse range of mediums — including installations, drawings, paintings, sculptures, photography, and video art — 40 international artists immerse viewers in the visceral realms of protest, social dissent, and public anger. The exhibition doesn’t just present anger as a raw emotion; it portrays it as a vehicle for dialogue, resistance, and empowerment in the face of systemic injustice.

A substantial portion of the works on display come from the collection of entrepreneur and collector Florian Peters-Messer, whose commitment to socially engaged art amplifies the urgent messages these pieces convey.

KOMAR & MELAMID

KOMAR & MELAMID delves into the fusion of art and ideology, spotlighting the pioneering duo known for their satirical takes on Soviet culture. This exhibition showcases their innovative approach to ‘Sots Art,’ a movement that critiques the socialist aesthetic while playfully engaging with the political and commercial landscapes of the 20th century. Through a diverse array of works, including paintings, installations, and conceptual pieces, Komar and Melamid invite viewers to reconsider the purpose and function of art in society. Their collaboration challenges traditional boundaries, marrying humor with profound sociopolitical commentary—a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art’s dialogue with history and culture.

Train Arrival

“Arrival of the Train” is a captivating exhibition that unites over a hundred artistic works from both Russian and international creators, celebrating the train’s rich cultural significance as a harbinger of change and progress. It delves into the multifaceted roles of trains throughout history—from transformative technological marvels to poignant symbols in art—inviting viewers to journey through time and space. Showcasing everything from the historic funeral train of Lenin to the nostalgic echoes of the Trans-Siberian Railway, the exhibition highlights the train’s enduring impact on civilization and its power as a vessel for communication and innovation, ultimately crafting a shared narrative that connects cultures and eras in a uniquely dynamic way.

TIME FOR OUTRAGE! Art in Times of Social Anger | Postcolonialism

Can anger and rage be justified in a world riddled with oppression and inequality? Are these emotions destructive forces or vital catalysts for social change? As democracy faces crises and populism gains ground globally, these questions have sparked renewed debate. Contemporary artists have responded, using their work to navigate and challenge the pressing issues of our time.

The exhibition ‘Time for Outrage!’ in Düsseldorf explores these questions through six thematic blocks: Right-wing Shift, Trumpism, Protest, Postcolonialism, Feminism, and Discrimination. Across a diverse range of mediums — including installations, drawings, paintings, sculptures, photography, and video art — 40 international artists immerse viewers in the visceral realms of protest, social dissent, and public anger. The exhibition doesn’t just present anger as a raw emotion; it portrays it as a vehicle for dialogue, resistance, and empowerment in the face of systemic injustice.

A substantial portion of the works on display come from the collection of entrepreneur and collector Florian Peters-Messer, whose commitment to socially engaged art amplifies the urgent messages these pieces convey.

Mikhail Grachev. Soviet Daily Life. 1930s—1960s

In Mikhail Grachev. Soviet Daily Life. 1930s—1960s through an array of photographs, artifacts, and multimedia installations, attendees are invited to experience the complexities of everyday existence during a transformative era in Russian history. The exhibition captures the interplay of culture, politics, and personal narratives, reflecting how art and design were interwoven into the fabric of daily routines — from the bustling streets to communal celebrations. By showcasing both the mundane and the extraordinary, the exhibition offers a unique lens on how people lived, worked, and dreamt in a time of significant socio-political change, encouraging visitors to ponder the lasting impact of this period on contemporary society and culture.

Victoria Lomasko. Other Russias

Victoria Lomasko’s retrospective at Cartoonmuseum Basel invites viewers to engage deeply with her explorations of Russia’s marginalized communities. This vibrant exhibition showcases her striking murals and drawings, which intricately depict the lives of LGBT activists, sex workers, and migrant laborers. Through her keen observations and bold, expressive style, Lomasko highlights the social injustices and political repression faced by these groups.

TIME FOR OUTRAGE! Art in Times of Social Anger | Protest

Can anger and rage be justified in a world riddled with oppression and inequality? Are these emotions destructive forces or vital catalysts for social change? As democracy faces crises and populism gains ground globally, these questions have sparked renewed debate. Contemporary artists have responded, using their work to navigate and challenge the pressing issues of our time. The exhibition Time for Outrage! in Düsseldorf explores these questions through six thematic blocks: Right-wing Shift, Trumpism, Protest, Postcolonialism, Feminism, and Discrimination. Across a diverse range of mediums — including installations, drawings, paintings, sculptures, photography, and video art — 40 international artists immerse viewers in the visceral realms of protest, social dissent, and public anger. The exhibition doesn’t just present anger as a raw emotion; it portrays it as a vehicle for dialogue, resistance, and empowerment in the face of systemic injustice.

 

Vasily Ulitin. Elegy

Vasily Ulitin. Elegy is a poignant exploration of memory and the human experience, showcasing contemporary artworks that delve into themes of loss and nostalgia. This compelling exhibition brings together a diverse array of artists, each offering a unique lens on the fragility of existence and the echoes of the past. Through striking visuals and thought-provoking installations, visitors are invited to reflect on the transient nature of life and the artifacts of memory that linger in our minds. The careful curation weaves a narrative that transcends individual perspectives, creating a shared space for solace and contemplation.

Nicholas Roerich. Sanctuaries and Citadels

N.K. Roerich’s exhibition unveils over 80 captivating works inspired by his 1925 Central Asian expedition. With an extraordinary blend of majestic mountain landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and formidable fortresses, Roerich crafts a compelling narrative of heroism and spiritual pursuit that transcends cultural boundaries. His pieces celebrate the sacredness of labor and the enduring human spirit, evoking a universal call to courage and resilience. Roerich’s unique style, characterized by what can be termed “epic realism,” draws upon his deep understanding of history, folklore, and religious traditions.