CHAUSSEE 36 Photography is marking its 10th anniversary with a comprehensive retrospective exhibition that looks back at the cultural center's impactful past while positioning itself for the future. The anniversary show, titled "Retrovision," presents and reinterprets three major collective exhibitions that have defined CHAUSSEE 36 Photography's programming over the past decade.
The retrospective focuses on three landmark exhibitions that shaped the gallery's reputation: "Europe Under Construction" (2015), "Women on View" (2019), and "Behind Desire" (2020). These exhibitions have been carefully selected for their historical, sociological, and philosophical perspectives, as well as the originality and relevance of their themes. Together, they represent the foundation upon which CHAUSSEE 36 has built its artistic identity and mission.
Complementing the main exhibition is "CHAUSSEE 36: Site Memories," which offers visitors a unique glimpse into the building's origins through previously unseen photographs that document the site's sustainable transformation over time. This additional component provides crucial context for understanding the venue's evolution and commitment to environmental consciousness.
The three featured exhibitions highlight the major societal issues that CHAUSSEE 36 has explored and championed throughout its decade-long journey. These include European democratic values, gender equality, eroticism, and sustainable development - themes that remain highly relevant in today's cultural and political landscape. The original exhibitions collectively featured more than 100 photographers and were developed in collaboration with numerous partner institutions, demonstrating the gallery's extensive network and collaborative approach.
This anniversary exhibition takes a fresh approach by revisiting these important themes through carefully curated dialogues between works. The show incorporates pieces from the prestigious De Gambs Collection and has been enriched with new works specially loaned for this occasion, creating a dynamic conversation between past and present artistic voices.
The "Retrovision" exhibition will be accompanied by a special program of events designed to enhance the visitor experience and provide deeper engagement with the themes explored. The exhibition runs from September 19 through November 8, 2025, at CHAUSSEE 36 Photography, located at Chausseestrasse 36, 10115 Berlin, Germany. Additional information about the exhibition and related programming is available at www.chaussee36.photography/retrovision.
