Mercredi 11 Mars 2015 17:37:55 par actuphoto dans Expositions

Nature is the origin of all life and its presentation appears to be one of the most traditional pictorial genres throughout history: landscape paintings. This exhibition focuses on the current trend among young artists to address the subject of landscape as precise as possible, yet still subjectively.

In terms of historic cartography, Terra Incognita means places that - according to the mapmaker - had not been discovered at that time but were expected to exist. Ever since photography got invented, the 19th century’s explorers and pioneers used this new and convenient medium to "document" formerly undiscovered and exotic areas in realistic form. However, in the first place, the easily reproduced photos served as powerful multiplier of knowledge. It took only seconds to look at them and impart impressions, emotions and present specific situations. A kind of knowledge about foreign landscapes that was mainly derived from pictures and images was thus shaped. These days, everybody can - in real or by digital means - access just any part of the world, no matter how far away it might be. More than ever before, photos are used to present information and statements quickly. Both, in media as well as in art this trend becomes obvious in the dialog regarding photography.

© Jocelyn Catterson
Heart Lake, Montana, 2011

The artists who exhibit at KIT present works that respond to this trend and call for a specific visual sensitivity. In this context, photography acts as starting point, as tool, or as part of the artistic activity. The artists approach the medium in various ways. Some of the works shown are made from material found by the artist; others are video installations or traditional photos. However, all works are characterized by a respectful approach to nature’s super-power. In a time in which reality is frequently -designed or even artificial, they convey increased awareness. The offer the viewer possible answers to the crucial question on the relation between man and environment in the 21st century.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a catalogue in German and English that provides images of the installations.

Curated by Dorothee Mosters