Queerreality- New Realms of Surrealism

Künstler*innen: Zeynep Alpay, Cihan Çakmak, Banu Çiçek Tülü, Yağız Gülseven, Julia Jesionek, Şafak Şule Kemancı, Berk Kır, Eda Kıvanç, Furkan Öztekin und Joanna Stange 

Kuration: Aylime Asli Demir & Eva Liedtjens 

Vernissage: 11.10.2024 | ab 18:30h

We imagine new worlds – entangled, universal and life-affirming. Celebrating 100 years of the Surrealist Manifesto the group exhibition explores the profound connections and dynamic divergences between Surrealist and Queer art. The exhibition rethinks Surrealism through contemporary queer-feminist artworks that challenge norms, question identities, and deconstruct the heteronormative order. Using methods such as fragmentation, collage, mixed media installation, experimental photography and animation, the artists explore motifs of night, dreams, nightmares, hybrid beings, in-between and  alternate realities, creating a dialogue that spans across time and communities. Innovative works of queer, feminist, and (post-)migrant artists are displayed who draw inspiration from classical Surrealism while boldly critiquing and reimagining its principles.

Taking place in the Kulturbunker in Köln-Mülheim—a former World War II bunker that is now a safe space for diverse communities— the exhibition transforms the bunker into a vibrant, inclusive “queerreality” that celebrates diversity.

The exhibition is part of a joint project by Kulturbunker – Köln Mülheim e.V.; Iç Içe – Festival für  neue anatolische Musik and NEOLA art projects e.V. funded by the Kulturamt der Stadt Köln and Soziokultur NRW. Curated by Aylime Asli Demir (Ankara Queer Art Programme) and Eva Liedtjens (NEOLA art projects e.V.)