An exhibition about the power of survival and the art of remembrance
From 5 October to 29 December 2024, Gulia Groenke's latest exhibition, ‘Minus 10’, can be seen in the historic Kant Garages. This intimate and powerful exhibition takes viewers deep into the artist's world – to the northernmost city in the world, Norilsk. A place known not only for its extreme climatic conditions, but also for its dark history and its impact on the people who live there.
Norilsk: A city between darkness and the will to survive
Norilsk, the artist's home town, is more than just a geographical footnote. Built by GULAG forced labourers, it is now one of the ten dirtiest cities in the world and holds the dubious title of ‘most depressed city in Russia’.
This reality shapes the lives of its inhabitants, who live with months of darkness, polluted air and a life expectancy of ten years below the Russian average.
About the exhibition
The exhibition brings together artworks that blend elements that may at first seem contradictory. It offers not only a visual but also an emotional approach to the artist's profound experiences.
Groenke invites the viewer to delve into the layers of her art, which connect the past and the present, while raising questions that go far beyond the borders of Norilsk.
For art experts and journalists, ‘Minus 10’ offers a fascinating insight into the interconnection between personal history, political reality and artistic expression. It is an invitation to go beyond the limits of the visible and explore the unspeakable through the lens of colours, textures and photography.
About the artist
Gulia Groenke is an artist based in Germany and the United States with Russian roots. Her work often deals with the connection between personal memory and socio-political realities. She uses a variety of media to explore the complexity of the human experience and to open up new perspectives on familiar topics.
With ‘Minus 10’, she brings an intimate and multi-layered series to Berlin that is outstanding in both its artistic technique and narrative content.
Additional information
- Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 12:00 – 20:00
- Opening: 5 October 2024, 17:00