Maya Schweizer – Voices

Human perception of time often resembles a collage — fragmented and layered, shaped by memory and experience. Berlin-based artist Maya Schweizer captures this complexity through her unique language of short film. In her work, everyday spaces become carriers of memory, interweaving found footage, situational observations, and soundscapes to create immersive, multifaceted narratives. Schweizer’s art subtly explores the intricacies of cultural identity and the role individuals play as political actors, encouraging deeper reflection on how we engage with our surroundings and their embedded histories. In her solo exhibition Stimmen (Voices) at the Museum Villa Stuck, composed of 10 films spanning the past 14 years, Schweizer gives voice to those who have disappeared, recounting stories of violence, memory, and loss, particularly within the context of German history and Munich’s past. By blending personal and collective histories, her work oscillates between documentation and staged reality, using urban spaces as laboratories for examining overlapping historical layers. As viewers dive into the culture of remembrance, Schweizer uncovers new and often unsettling depths of human memory, sparking a reflection on the invisible ties between people, places, and their histories.

Sergiy Bratkov. My Brother’s Cats | Curatorial Introduction

Sergiy Bratkov (b. 1960) is renowned for his radically unsettling and striking photographs that, beneath their vivid surface, present an unflinching report on societal conditions. Like other members of the “Kharkiv School of Photography,” his work over the past 30 years has focused on social photography. In spring 2022, the Ukrainian artist, who had been living in Moscow since 2004, emigrated to Berlin. His recent work, previously centered on outdated Soviet-era clichés and the brash new capitalism of post-Soviet Ukraine, has now been sharply refocused by the brutal realities of the ongoing war.

In this exhibition, Bratkov presents new cycles of images and videos created since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The once ironic observer has transformed into a reflective analyst, confronting the horrors of war in his former homeland. His new works grapple with this trauma while resisting the pull of hopelessness.

Sergiy Bratkov. My Brother’s Cats | Immersive Artist Tour

Sergiy Bratkov (b. 1960) is renowned for his radically unsettling and striking photographs that, beneath their vivid surface, present an unflinching report on societal conditions. Like other members of the “Kharkiv School of Photography,” his work over the past 30 years has focused on social photography. In spring 2022, the Ukrainian artist, who had been living in Moscow since 2004, emigrated to Berlin. His recent work, previously centered on outdated Soviet-era clichés and the brash new capitalism of post-Soviet Ukraine, has now been sharply refocused by the brutal realities of the ongoing war.

In this exhibition, Bratkov presents new cycles of images and videos created since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The once ironic observer has transformed into a reflective analyst, confronting the horrors of war in his former homeland. His new works grapple with this trauma while resisting the pull of hopelessness.

Raqs Media Collective. Everything Else is Ordinary

The Raqs Media Collective, founded in 1992 in New Delhi by Jeebesh Bagchi, Monica Narula, and Shuddhabrata Sengupta, operates at the intersection of contemporary art, historical inquiry, philosophical speculation, and political critique. Their work probes the fundamental, often elusive, concepts of time, language, and history, challenging linear narratives and fixed interpretations. Central to their practice is the interrogation of time — not merely as a measurable entity but as a force that governs societal rhythms, disciplines human life, and underpins capitalist structures. In works such as Escapement (2009) and Re-Run (2013), they explore how time shapes experience, asking what it means to measure time and how it intersects with space and history.

Human Condition. Session III. “Time And Senses”: Trauma, Memory, Oblivion, Knowledge. Exhibition “The Haunted House”

The Human Condition exhibition, a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary art that delves into the complexities of human experience. This showcase features a diverse collection of works that challenge perceptions and provoke dialogue about identity, society, and the emotional landscape of modern life. Each piece serves as a mirror, reflecting the multifaceted nature of existence in today’s world. Through innovative mediums and striking visuals, the artists invite viewers to engage deeply with themes of vulnerability, connection, and resilience. This exhibition is not just a display of art; it’s an immersive journey that encourages introspection and a deeper understanding of what it means to be human in an ever-evolving society.

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.

Augury of Cosmos

The exhibition Augury of Cosmos showcases the innovative works of contemporary artists, who masterfully blend traditional techniques with modern themes to explore the complexities of human experience. Through a diverse array of mediums, including painting and installation, viewers engage with the interplay of memory, identity, and the passage of time. Thought-provoking pieces challenge conventional narratives, encouraging a dialogue between the past and present. This exhibition not only highlights unique artistic vision but also serves as a reflection on the broader cultural landscape, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the evolution of contemporary art.

History of the Photo Club “Riga”

In the early 1960s, photography emerged as a recognized art form, yet, in Latvia, it struggled for acceptance in traditional art spaces. The establishment of the Photo Club “Rīga” in 1962 marked a pivotal moment, fostering a vibrant community that embraced photography’s artistic potential. This collective became a vital force in shaping the perception of art photography both locally and globally, drawing in visionary talents who pushed creative boundaries. The club’s ongoing legacy reflects not just the evolution of photography as an art form but also its enduring relevance within contemporary Latvian culture. As it adapts to new challenges and styles, the Photo Club remains a cherished cornerstone, celebrating its historical impact while inspiring future generations of photographers.

Klaus Staeck. Sand for the Gears

Klaus Staeck’s exhibition offers a captivating journey through the provocative artistry that defined West Germany’s visual landscape from the late 1960s to the late 1980s. Celebrated as a political agitator, Staeck’s posters not only sparked public discourse but also reflected the turbulent social climate of the time. The display features around 180 of his striking designs, alongside early prints and three-dimensional multiples, showcasing his ability to intertwine art with activism. Each piece acts as a visual commentary on pressing societal issues, daring viewers to confront the challenges of their era. Staeck’s work serves as a reminder of the profound impact that art can have in shaping collective memory and igniting conversations long after the initial scandal has faded.