Russian Avant-Garde

At the beginning of the twentieth century, artists everywhere were seeking out new forms of expression. Inspired by West European movements, Russian avant-garde artists developed a wholly unique, radically abstract visual style.

"We must tear the veil from our eyes"
Around one-hundred exhibits illustrate how stylistic developments in fine art were introduced into the medium of photography. A notable example is the work of Alexander Rodtschenko. Originally a painter, he soon dedicated himself to creating photo-montages. Capturing city life with his Leica, he did not aim for a mere record of reality. Instead, his unconventional choice of subjects and unusual perspectives reflect the compositions of abstract paintings.

Other artists such as El Lissitzky or Georgi Selma also transposed visual strategies from fine art to photography. By displaying photographs alongside paper-based works and drawings by artists such as Kasimir Malewitsch, the exhibition illustrates how the visual hallmarks of Suprematism and Constructivism were re-created by photographic means.

An accompanying catalogue is also available, released by Hatje-Cantz Publishing.

For further information visit: Hatje Cantz Publishing und Kunst- und Kulturstiftung Opelvillen