Agitprop Trains

Agitprop Trains

The exhibition delves into a groundbreaking aspect of Russian cultural history birthed from the revolution—mobile propaganda trains. These unique vehicles served as a fusion of art and technology, transforming into vibrant mobile platforms that combined exhibitions, theater, libraries, and cinema on wheels. Launched in 1918 under the directive of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee, these trains traversed vast distances, reaching from Odessa to Irkutsk and engaging communities with their painted exteriors and rich artistic content. Supervised by renowned graphic artist Ignatiy Nivinsky, the trains featured contributions from a diverse array of artists, blending Symbolism with early avant-garde ideas. This exhibition promises an in-depth exploration of their socio-political significance during the Civil War, showcasing archival photos, posters, and various artifacts that capture the ethos of an era where art became instrumental in uniting and inspiring a nation.

Why should you watch this?

Watching a guided tour of this exhibition is particularly essential in today’s context, as it illuminates the enduring power of art as a vehicle for social change and collective identity. In a world increasingly fractured by division and misinformation, the exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of how creative expression can be mobilized to unite communities and convey critical messages. As contemporary society grapples with its own political upheavals, understanding the historical context of these mobile propaganda trains reveals the importance of merging various forms of media and art to engage the public constructively. This tour not only highlights the innovative spirit of artists who contributed to the movement but also encourages dialogue about the role of culture in shaping our narratives and responding to social challenges.

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

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.

Why should you watch this?

As political polarization, social inequality, and widespread protests dominate global headlines, the exhibition sheds light on the emotional and political power of anger as a response to injustice. The tour offers nuanced insights into how contemporary artists interpret and challenge societal issues like fake news, racial violence, and the erosion of democratic values. By exploring the different artistic expressions of outrage, viewers gain a richer understanding of how these works speak to our current moment, making the exhibition incredibly relevant as we navigate a world increasingly defined by conflict and resistance.
Tobias Zielony. Maskirovka [Concealment]

Tobias Zielony. Maskirovka [Concealment]

Tobias Zielony’s “Maskirovka” offers a striking exploration of Kyiv’s queer techno scene in the wake of the post-Maidan era, blending artistic expression with a profound commentary on societal resistance. This project reflects the duality of its title, capturing moments where identity is both concealed and celebrated amid an unstable political landscape. Through his evocative photographs and a dynamic animated film composed of 5,400 images, Zielony provides a lens into a vibrant, underground community that challenges nationalism and conventional norms. The interplay of nighttime revelry and the stark realities of conflict creates a vivid tapestry, inviting viewers to engage with the multi-faceted narratives of the individuals within, while questioning the representation of Ukraine within broader sociopolitical dialogues. In this nuanced portrayal, Zielony reveals the fragility and resilience of a generation caught between chaos and the pursuit of self-determination.

Why should you watch this?

Tobias Zielony’s “Maskirovka” is a compelling reflection on the resilience and creativity of Kyiv’s queer techno scene, resonating profoundly in today’s world marked by social and political upheaval. Set against the backdrop of the post-Maidan era, this exhibition underscores the ongoing struggle for identity and belonging in the face of repression and misinformation, themes that echo in various global contexts today. By employing the concept of “maskirovka”—a tactic of deception used in conflict—Zielony captures how both artists and activists navigate the complexities of expression and resistance. His photographs and dynamic animated film form a visual narrative that invites critical reflection on the intersection of culture, politics, and personal agency. As societies grapple with fragmentation and polarization, “Maskirovka” reminds us of the power of art to forge connections, challenge norms, and provoke dialogue, making it an essential commentary on contemporary struggles for freedom.

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

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.

 

Why should you watch this?

As political polarization, social inequality, and widespread protests dominate global headlines, the exhibition sheds light on the emotional and political power of anger as a response to injustice. The tour offers nuanced insights into how contemporary artists interpret and challenge societal issues like fake news, racial violence, and the erosion of democratic values. By exploring the different artistic expressions of outrage, viewers gain a richer understanding of how these works speak to our current moment, making the exhibition incredibly relevant as we navigate a world increasingly defined by conflict and resistance.
“Your Feedback is Very Important for Us”

“Your Feedback is Very Important for Us”

The exhibition “Your review is very important to us” delves into the evolving landscape of reader engagement with classical literature, inviting visitors to explore how expressions of opinion have transformed from the 19th century to today’s digital era. Through a compelling blend of research by philologist Anna Gerasimova and innovative works from contemporary Russian artists, the show raises thought-provoking questions about the interplay between amateur reviews and literary criticism. Viewers will experience how machine learning interprets text, engage with an audio installation that echoes voices from the past and present, and even connect Nabokov’s correspondence to modern digital discourse.

Why should you watch this?

The exhibition “Your review is very important to us” holds significant relevance in today’s digital landscape, where reader voices and online reviews have transformed the way we engage with classical literature. In an age that celebrates individual expression, the show challenges traditional hierarchies of literary criticism by emphasizing the importance of personal perspectives alongside established viewpoints. It invites us to reflect on how technology, from machine learning to social media, reshapes our interaction with texts and broadens our understanding of art and literature. By highlighting the dynamic relationship between modern readers, artists, and classical works, this exhibition not only redefines the role of the audience in literary discourse but also underscores the importance of diverse interpretations in a cultural dialogue increasingly shaped by digital platforms.

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

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

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.

Why should you watch this?

As political polarization, social inequality, and widespread protests dominate global headlines, the exhibition sheds light on the emotional and political power of anger as a response to injustice. The tour offers nuanced insights into how contemporary artists interpret and challenge societal issues like fake news, racial violence, and the erosion of democratic values. By exploring the different artistic expressions of outrage, viewers gain a richer understanding of how these works speak to our current moment, making the exhibition incredibly relevant as we navigate a world increasingly defined by conflict and resistance.
Clemens von Wedemeyer – Mehrheiten [Majorities]

Clemens von Wedemeyer – Mehrheiten [Majorities]

The exhibition critically examines the evolution of mass mobilization and crowd dynamics in both historical and contemporary contexts, drawing inspiration from Elias Canetti’s “Crowds and Power.” Set against the backdrop of the GfZK’s new architectural space, the exhibition engages with the complexities of collective action, exploring how digital public spheres shape democratic participation while simultaneously being exploited for exclusionary practices. Featuring a rich array of video installations and cinematic works, including the new production “70.001,” which reimagines the 1989 Leipzig demonstrations, “Majorities” invites reflection on the nuances of social behavior and the implications of simulated experiences in gaming and surveillance. Through this thoughtful presentation, Wedemeyer prompts us to consider the intertwining narratives of isolation and community, resonating powerfully in today’s fragmented society.

Why should you watch this?

Watching this guided tour is crucial in our current landscape marked by digital polarization and the resurgence of mass movements. As societies grapple with issues of identity, representation, and exclusion within online spaces, this exhibition offers a vital framework for understanding how crowd dynamics shape our collective psyche and political discourse. In an age where social media can amplify divisive ideologies, gaining insights into the historical and psychological underpinnings of mass mobilization is essential. The tour encourages participants to critically examine how these dynamics operate today, heightening awareness of the fine line between community engagement and manipulation. By exploring these themes, viewers are invited to reflect on their agency within the digital public sphere, making the experience not just an exploration of art and history, but also a compelling call to engage thoughtfully in the ongoing dialogue about democracy and social responsibility in our interconnected world.

TIME FOR OUTRAGE! Art in Times of Social Anger | Right-wing Shift

TIME FOR OUTRAGE! Art in Times of Social Anger | Right-wing Shift

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.

Why should you watch this?

As political polarization, social inequality, and widespread protests dominate global headlines, the exhibition sheds light on the emotional and political power of anger as a response to injustice. The tour offers nuanced insights into how contemporary artists interpret and challenge societal issues like fake news, racial violence, and the erosion of democratic values. By exploring the different artistic expressions of outrage, viewers gain a richer understanding of how these works speak to our current moment, making the exhibition incredibly relevant as we navigate a world increasingly defined by conflict and resistance.
TIME FOR OUTRAGE! Art in Times of Social Anger | Introduction

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

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.

Why should you watch this?

As political polarization, social inequality, and widespread protests dominate global headlines, the exhibition sheds light on the emotional and political power of anger as a response to injustice. The tour offers nuanced insights into how contemporary artists interpret and challenge societal issues like fake news, racial violence, and the erosion of democratic values. By exploring the different artistic expressions of outrage, viewers gain a richer understanding of how these works speak to our current moment, making the exhibition incredibly relevant as we navigate a world increasingly defined by conflict and resistance.