Curator Nicolas Havette's Show Revisits 'Degenerate Art' Concept
Nicolas Havette, a curator, has unveiled a thought-provoking photography exhibition that questions artistic norms by revisiting the 1937 'Entartete Kunst' (Degenerate Art) exhibition from the Nazi era. This original display aimed to condemn unorthodox art forms and artists who challenged the prevailing aesthetic and political standards. Havette's work highlights the similarities between past and present exclusions, suggesting that each period establishes its own classifications and visibility norms. The exhibition argues that troubling times begin not with the burning of books but with the categorization of bodies and narratives. It critiques today's environment, where oversimplification is favored, identities become rigid, and nuance is viewed with suspicion. The show is hosted at an undisclosed location, encouraging viewers to reflect on the nature of images as comforting or unsettling.
Key facts
- Curator Nicolas Havette launched a photography exhibition challenging artistic conformity.
- The exhibition references the Nazi regime's 1937 'Entartete Kunst' (Degenerate Art) exhibition.
- The original show targeted impure forms, resistant imaginaries, and non-conforming artists.
- Havette argues that every era invents its own categories, exclusions, and norms of visibility.
- The show claims dark periods begin with classification of bodies, narratives, and images.
- It critiques the current trend of simplification and hardening of identities.
- The exhibition is described as provocative and focused on photography.
- The venue and specific dates are not provided in the source.
Entities
Artists
- Nicolas Havette