VALIE EXPORT: A Provocative Journey into Avant-Garde Art at C/O Berlin's Retrospective
Discover the feminist perspectives of a trailblazing artist.
Today marks the highly anticipated opening of the VALIE EXPORT Retrospective at C/O Berlin, housed in the historic Amerika Haus. Running from January 27 to May 22, 2024, this exhibition offers a profound journey into the avant-garde world of VALIE EXPORT (b. 1940), an artist whose bold confrontations with societal norms and feminist perspectives have left an indelible mark on contemporary art.
In collaboration with guest curator Walter Moser from the ALBERTINA Museum in Vienna, and Boaz Levin of C/O Berlin Foundation, this retrospective delves deep into the multifaceted career of EXPORT, showcasing works created between 1966 and 2009. From pioneering "expanded cinema" actions to thought-provoking performances and multimedia installations, EXPORT's creations challenge conventional boundaries and continue to resonate with contemporary sociopolitical inquiries.
At the heart of the exhibition lies EXPORT's fearless exploration of the female body and its representation in patriarchal society. Iconic pieces like "TAPP und TASTKINO (Touch Cinema, 1968)" invite viewers to confront voyeuristic tendencies, while "Aus der Mappe der Hundigkeit (From the Portfolio of Doggedness, 1968)" disrupts traditional gender roles by placing EXPORT on a leash, prompting reflection on human behavior through provocative symbolism.
Throughout her career, EXPORT's interdisciplinary approach defies categorization, incorporating elements of film, performance, photography, and installation. Central to her practice is an unwavering critique of mass media and its portrayal of women, challenging viewers to confront issues of social marginalization and gender identity.
VALIE EXPORT's influence extends far beyond the confines of the art world. As a pioneering figure in Conceptual media art, she has participated in prestigious exhibitions worldwide, including the Venice Biennale and documenta. Her legacy as an educator further solidifies her impact, having taught at esteemed institutions such as the Art Institute in San Francisco and the University of Art in Berlin.
For more informations visit co-berlin.org.
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