BerlinWinterWorkshops
Power, Space and Images (using the example of Berlin)
Kai-Olaf Hesse
(dt./engl.)
This workshop is a city-reading exercise. Cities are emblematic, but can
one identify that meaning within the urban hustle and bustle beyond the
well-known cliches? What kind of relevance and which form of one's own
affectivity, which own proportion towards the seen of buildings,
imitations, surfaces and memories evokes the city of Berlin within
ourselves?
Photographs can attempt to explore and reflect upon this meaning
especially in regard to symbols and areas of a city, whose historical
meaning and memorizing connotations appear to be fixed. Perhaps, the
scrutinizing gaze of photography can offer a new critical perspective.
This workshop does not aim to create a factual city portrait, nor a
narrative story. Moreover, we are looking for images, which capture a
visual "gut feeling" of the White Noise and the bustling experiences of
the city. Thereby, enabling us to depict, describe, articulate and
discuss the contingencies of the fluxing urbanity.
Following an introduction on political photography and a bit on the
imagery of Berlin, Kai-Olaf Hesse will guide participants through the
city. The participants will then work individually on their own
projects. Within the intimate and intensive working atmosphere of a
small group, the core of the workshop will be the daily group meeting to
critically edit and discuss the images. The focus being the development
of an individual visual language.
Seminar Structure
- Lecture on the photographic practice and positions in relation to
Berlin and political photography
- Developing topics for individual projects
- Participants work independently on their own projects
- Group discussions, critical input and feedback on each participants
work
The workshop will be held in a small group of 7 to 12 participants. The fee is 190,- € (incl. 19% VAT). All interested applicants should apply by eMail. Please attach 5 to 10 examples of your own work and/or a link to your personal website. You should also attach a short statement about your photographic skills and motivation.