Civilization: Wie wir heute leben

The exhibition 'Civilization' explores various facets of our exceptionally complex coexistence--highlighting both the remarkable achievements of humanity and our collective failures. It examines cultures from all continents, focusing on how we produce and consume, work and play, travel and reside, think and create, cooperate and conflict. In an era where individuals and opinions are increasingly polarized, making consensus seem ever more elusive, the exhibition emphasizes our commonalities.

Never before in human history have so many people been so diversely interconnected and dependent on one another. Modern phenomena such as the Olympic Games, the jumbo jet, smartphones, social media, and artificial intelligence--despite their controversial discussions--are all made possible by the preserved knowledge of earlier times and the collective efforts of highly skilled, educated, and motivated individuals.

The exhibition features 230 photographs divided into eight chapters, guiding visitors through central aspects of civilization:

• BIENENSTOCK: This room showcases photographs documenting the intricate coexistence of people in the megacities of the world, highlighting both architectural uniqueness and the diverse lifestyles of urban everyday life.
• ZUSAMMEN ALLEIN: This chapter explores the tension between individuality and collectivity, examining our need for belonging while striving to maintain our identity.
• KONTROLLIEREN: Focuses on often invisible contexts in which authority and power are exercised.
• FLIESSEN: Discusses the movement of people, goods, and finances, along with the sophisticated infrastructures that sustain our civilization.
• BEEINFLUSSEN: Examines strategies employed to evoke needs and manipulate behavior.
• BRECHEN: Investigates the causes and consequences of conflicts and migration, as well as the fractures in our societal structures.
• ENTFLIEHEN: Shows how the intricate mechanisms of the vacation and leisure industry allow people to escape their everyday lives and retreat into dream worlds.
• ALS NÄCHSTES: Opens a view into the world that is becoming our future, raising questions about ethical responsibility in the face of new technologies and the adaptability required to meet ecological challenges.

The exhibition includes works from renowned artists such as Candida Höfer, Edward Burtynsky, and Thomas Struth, as well as emerging photographers like Pablo López Luz, Sheng-Wen Lo, and Julia Chamberlain.