Um, around 1979

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In 1979, Roland Barthes identified two approaches to photography: one that tames it through aesthetic categories like authorship and genre, and another that captures its frenetic impact tied to the "awakening of the intractable reality." Two decades later, photography is increasingly viewed as a document that re-evaluates aesthetics and ethics. This exhibition at Museum Ludwig, Cologne, explores these considerations through historical documentary photography, featuring works by notable artists such as Robert Adams, Derek Bennett, and David Goldblatt. The exhibition examines the aesthetic, ethical, performative, and political dimensions of this "intractable reality." Each photo series prompts critical questions: Who took the photos, when and where, on whose behalf, and to whom are they addressed? It also explores contemporary approaches to photography. The catalog includes several introductory texts that highlight key photographic and documentary perspectives, while cross-references to history reassess the relevance of current documentary practices. This comprehensive exhibition offers valuable insights into the ongoing debate surrounding documentary photography, accompanied by a detailed bibliography for further research. Exhibition dates: 28/6–5/10/2014.