Dresden Art Collections Showcase DDR Performance Art

The Staatlichen Kunstsammlungen Dresden (SKD) is set to highlight the innovative and often subversive world of action art during the GDR period with a new exhibition. Titled "Dancing Out of Line: Action Artists in the GDR," the exhibit will run from May 17 to August 31 at the Albertinum in Dresden.

This exhibition aims to shine a light on the significant contributions made by female artists, particularly focusing on the Erfurt artist group, established in 1984, and the Autoperforationsartisten group formed in Dresden in 1982. The SKD emphasizes that these artists utilized various genres to challenge the established norms and express their resistance against the state-sanctioned art scene of the 1980s in East Germany.

Through their performances, costumes, and body art, these nonconformist artists carved out new modes of expression, creating spaces for self-determination and resistance. The exhibition will also explore the collaboration between painter Christine Schlegel and dancer Fine Kwiatkowski, showcasing how their partnership contributed to the dynamic landscape of performance art during this period.

Central to the exhibition are the costumes from the Erfurt group, which were integral to fashion-object shows, performances, and Super-8 films. The event will also feature filmed interviews where some of these artists reflect on their experiences and the societal themes they addressed through their work.

Overall, this exhibition not only celebrates the creative spirit of these artists but also serves as an important reminder of the role that art can play in social commentary and resistance.