Hidden Beauty

12.10.2019 – 19.01.2020
Group Exhibition

Karin Sander's works arise from a reflection on the institutional and spatial framework of art and often fit so perfectly into the respective context that they are sometimes not perceived at first glance. A fine example of this is Identities on Display from 2013:
18 display cases set up as cloakrooms or lockers in the foyer of the Kunsthalle Nürnberg. Security rules in museums require that larger bags, backpacks, umbrellas or coats be locked up or left at the cloakroom. Karin Sander's lockable showcases fulfil the purpose of safekeeping, but allow private objects to be seen. In this way, the everyday utensils brought by visitors immediately become exhibits that allow conclusions to be drawn about the person, their gender, their individual preferences, their social status or even their cultural origins. Presented in display cases, bicycle helmets, shopping bags, jackets or umbrellas suddenly become facets of individual portraits that are viewed with the same interest as art objects. In this respect, the installation Identities on Display at Kunsthalle Nürnberg is not only an invitation to use and participate, but also represents the visitors themselves, their presence and absence as a constantly changing overall image.