Reise Nach Jerusalem

The point of departure for the exhibition “Reise nach Jerusalem” was formed around the engagement of the invited artists with the role of religion and tradition in their artistic practice. The exhibition brings together ten Berlin-based artists who share a highly personal confrontation of religiosity; artists who address or relate to the three major monotheistic religions: Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. The result is an inter-religious dialogue which attests to these religions’ conflicts and cohabitations.

The exhibition features works (photographs, paintings, videos, and installations), which confront the aesthetics of religion. Art historical references are consciously established, however, in order to reflect on religion as an individual experience. In many instances, religion appears as a burden that each individual must carry. At the same time, the works surrender a fascination which emanates from the gestures and movements of ritual acts.

The title of the show refers to the city ofJerusalemas a link between these three monotheistic religions. East Jerusalem is home to some of the holiest sites of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the Dome of the Rock on theTempleMount.

The German expression “Reise Nach Jerusalem” denotes “musical chairs”. It originates in several historical references, one of which relates to the Crusades and their numerous attempts to arrive inJerusalem on a mission of pilgrimage. The expression can be used to refer to a chaotic situation, or to indicate an exchange or movement between figures (as in the eponymous game). Exhibiting these works at the Jerusalem Artists House, with its historical context, artistic character, and location in the center ofJerusalem, offers a rare opportunity to connect traditional and contemporary art, past and present secularism and religiosity.

Performance by Rabi Georges – On the opening night, Thu. 13.12.12

A second performance will be on Sat. 15.12.12 at 12:00

Immediately following the performance on Sat. there will be a gallery talk with the artists

In cooperation with the Goethe-Institut