What's Happening?
Mark Leckey's exhibition 'Enter Thru Medieval Wounds' at the Julia Stoschek Foundation in Berlin explores the concept of images as a religious force in a secular age. The exhibition, Leckey's largest in a decade,
features over 50 works across three floors, including his notable video 'Fiorucci Made Me Hardcore,' which examines UK dance subcultures through manipulated vintage footage. Leckey posits that filmic images serve as quasi-magical portals into different times and states, akin to medieval religious images. The exhibition includes recent works like 'To the Old World (Thank You For the Use of Your Body)' and 'Carry Me into The Wilderness,' which blend digital manipulation with historical and contemporary themes. Leckey's work advocates for technological animism, suggesting that recording confers a form of eternal life. His practice often bridges video art and sculpture, exploring the life of inanimate objects and the intersection of two and three-dimensional spaces.
Why It's Important?
Leckey's exhibition is significant for its exploration of the cultural and philosophical implications of images in contemporary society. By drawing parallels between medieval religious imagery and modern filmic archives, Leckey challenges viewers to reconsider the role of images in shaping perceptions and experiences. His work highlights the potential of art to serve as a conduit for cultural memory and social commentary, particularly in the context of neoliberalism and class dynamics. The exhibition's focus on technological animism and the life of recorded media may influence discussions on the impact of digital culture and the preservation of cultural heritage. Leckey's blending of video and sculpture offers a unique perspective on the materiality and temporality of art, potentially inspiring new approaches in contemporary art practice.
