When is the exhibition open?

The exhibition can be seen from October 9 to 24, 2026. The opening hours are Wednesday to Friday from 3 to 7 PM and Saturday from 12 to 6 PM.

Where does the exhibition take place?

The exhibition takes place in the Evangelical Pauluskirche, Grabenstr. 9, 44787 Bochum.

Which artists will be presented?

Works by Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT, who lived and worked for many years in Bochum, will be shown.

What is planned for the opening?

At the opening on Friday, October 9, 2026, Hansa Czypionka will read texts related to the images of BĀLAVAT. The moderation will be led by Andreas Mascha.

Is Renate von Charlottenburg present at the opening?

Yes, Renate von Charlottenburg will be present at the opening.

Are there any differing visiting hours?

Additional visits are possible by arrangement.

Art Between Myth and Transcendence: This Exhibition Opens New Horizons in Bochum

Name: Exhibition: There are many ways to approach the Absolute...
Start: 2026-10-16T10:00:00+02:00
End: 2026-10-24T18:00:00+02:00
Location: Evangelische Pauluskirche

Between Finity and Infinity: Art in Search of the Absolute

In the Evangelical Pauluskirche Bochum, from October 9 to 24, 2026, works by Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT will meet for the first time in a joint exhibition. Under the title There are many ways to approach the Absolute..., an art experience unfolds between philosophical reflection, visual poetry, and spiritual openness.

Two Artistic Positions, One Common Horizon

Both artists lived and worked many years in Bochum and were closely connected for almost five decades. Their artistic expressions, however, remained autonomous. The exhibition makes visible how differently a similar intellectual interest can articulate itself: the search for the Infinite in the Finite and for the Absolute in concrete aesthetic experience.

BĀLAVAT: Philosophical Pop Art Between Image and Text

BĀLAVAT developed energetic, powerful, and large-format object images. His works connect striking imagery with lyrical-philosophical texts, creating thought bridges between the profane, the universal, and the transcendent. In this connection of installation, object art, and linguistic reflection, fundamental questions of humanity appear newly formulated in contemporary form.

The contemplation of the works leads not only into an art direction but also into a thought space: images become questions, materials become carriers of meaning, and the exhibition atmosphere of Pauluskirche becomes a resonance space for philosophical and spiritual themes. BĀLAVAT passed away in 2019; his images and writings continue his artistic dialogue.

Renate von Charlottenburg: Delicate Lines, Great Myths

The contrasting counterpart is formed by the detailed pencil-ink drawings of Renate von Charlottenburg. Her imagery approaches the Absolute quietly, playfully, and precisely. Myths and fairy tales from East and West are taken up, transformed, and cast in a new light.

The artist combines formal precision with poetic imagination. Her position, referred to as Meta-Romanticism, connects to the achievements of the early German Romanticism and develops an independent contemporary visual language from it. In fine lines, narrative motifs, and humorous breaks, new perspectives on apparent opposites arise.

The Pauluskirche as an Atmospheric Exhibition Space

The sacred architecture of the Pauluskirche shapes the aesthetic experience. Between church space, artworks, and thoughtful concentration, a special spatial effect arises, in which light, silence, and imagery correspond with each other. The exhibition invites visitors to take the time for concentrated contemplation of the works and to perceive the transitions between art, philosophy, and spirituality.

Opening with Reading and Discussion

At the opening on Friday, October 9, 2026, actor Hansa Czypionka will read the texts related to the images of BĀLAVAT. The opening will be moderated by philosopher and publisher Andreas Mascha. Renate von Charlottenburg will be present. The exhibition thus combines visual art, literature, and conversation into a cultural evening with special thematic density.

Conclusion: An Exhibition as an Invitation to Open Thinking

Visitors can expect an exhibition that brings painting, drawing, object art, installation, and philosophical language into a compelling dialogue. Those who understand art as cultural education, aesthetic experience, and a possibility for self-reflection will find in the Pauluskirche an extraordinary place for a concentrated encounter with contemporary art. This exhibition deserves to be seen live, contemplated slowly, and thought through openly.