Global Fascisms: Ausstellungseröffnung

In the organizer's words:

Free admission

The exhibition and research project Global Fascisms is a critical examination of the aesthetic, social and political dynamics of fascism and focuses on its impact and ideological functioning. One of the main aims of the project is to understand fascism not only as a historical phenomenon, but also as an ongoing global challenge that goes beyond a historically limited definition and manifests itself today in various political, cultural and social contexts. The project focuses on historical and contemporary contexts in which far-right ideologies thrive, questioning concepts such as 'identity', 'community' and 'belonging'.

The exhibition brings together works by around fifty international artists who address the rise of fascist thought in a variety of media, including painting, film, performance, discourse, publications and digital formats. Historical artworks complement the group exhibition, revealing surprising continuities between past and present. The exhibition offers insights into the seductive affects and aesthetics of fascist ideologies while analyzing the social and technological aspects inherent in these dynamics.

From the role of 'social media' in creating echo chambers that reinforce fascization, to the invocation of nostalgic myths of 'golden ages' as a means of authoritarian rhetoric, the exhibition explores the mechanisms that sustain these ideologies and highlights the interplay between issues such as economic inequality, migration and the politicization of religion in fuelling nationalist affects.

By integrating art and rigorous interdisciplinary research, the project promotes new ways of understanding and engaging with these pressing issues at a critical moment when constituencies around the world are turning dramatically to right-wing, far-right and authoritarian movements. It positions art not only as a medium of reflection, but also as an active force that opposes authoritarian aesthetics and ideologies.

Exhibition venues: Mrinalini Mukherjee Halle, Beatriz Nascimento Halle and various foyers and outdoor areas of HKW