Presentation, representation

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This volume showcases ten contemporary German photographers who build on the legacy of the first generation of the "Becher students." Curator Thomas Weski highlights not only this new generation but also emphasizes a specific approach to the documentary aspect of photography. He distinguishes between presentation, which refers to the artistic creation inherent in photography, and representation, which embodies the documentary style where art and documentation intertwine. Weski articulates that “only a photo that has mastered the image can provoke permanent interest, perhaps lasting fascination.” The exhibition, organized by the Institute for Foreign Relations, aims to provide a cross-section of contemporary German photography, featuring works from ten photographers engaged in a dialogue about the medium. It addresses the transformations in photography during the digital age and its relationship with art, illustrating how these artists navigate and reinterpret the boundaries between artistic expression and documentary storytelling. Through this exploration, the exhibition seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the evolving nature of photography in today's context.