“Leni Riefenstahl dancing in the film TIEFLAND from 1943” (Triptych) by Bettina WitteVeen

Bettina WitteVeen’s Triptych “Leni Riefenstahl dancing in the film TIEFLAND from 1943“ is shown at munichmodern/12 PRINCIPLES OF COMPOSITION from November 21- December 01, 2012.

“Bettina WitteVeen is fascinated by the visual-acoustic potential and the aura of historical testimonials. The concept artist shows an exquisite composition of three color photographs featuring a dancing Leni Riefenstahl in the 1943 film version of the 1903 opera “Tiefland” in which paradoxically many Sinti and Roma where used as extras.”

This year, munichmodern explores the synaesthetic tension between music and image from a historical perspective within a contemporary context. International artists have conceived works specifically for this show, in dialogue with musical inspirations. We can experience how both disciplines meet to find new forms of expression, opening to manifold sensual levels: Art to be heard and music to be seen!

Theoretical reflections about art and music have been voiced by 20th century creatives like Alexander Skrjabin and John Cage or by the cultural philosopher Theodor W. Adorno. Skrjabin’s sound images und Cage’s complex designs of musical scores are important examples for the crossing of artistic boundaries. PRINCIPLES OF COMPOSITION is a programmatic exhibition featuring relevant positions and media of contemporary art.

With works by Dieter Appelt (mm), Stephan Balkenhol (Galerie Jochen Hempel, Berlin), Christoph Brech, Daniele Buetti (Galerie Feldbusch- Wiesner, Berlin), Jan Davidoff (Munich), José-Maria Cano (Madrid), David LaChapelle (Fred Torres Collaborations, New York), Martin Eder (Galerie Eigen + Art Leipzig/Berlin und Hauser & Wirth, Zurich/London), Stefan Hirsig (Berlin), Christian Jankowski (Helga Maria Klosterfelde, Berlin), Bo Christian Larsson (Stockholm/Berlin), Scharein (Berlin), David Smyth (Vienna), Julia Terjung (Berlin), Bettina WitteVeen (New York/ Berlin), among others.

Curated by Dr. Isabella Goebel & Dr. phil. Alexandra von Stosch.