There are many ways to approach the Absolute: Art in Bochum
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Two artistic paths to the Infinite in the Pauluskirche Bochum
The exhibition There are many ways to approach the Absolute... will bring together works by Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT for the first time at the Evangelical Pauluskirche Bochum from October 9 to 24, 2026. In the sacred space, two independent artistic positions confront the relationship between finitude, myth, spirit, and the Absolute.
Between philosophical Pop Art and poetic drawing
BĀLAVAT developed an energetic, powerful, and large-format visual language. His object images combine striking forms with lyrical-philosophical texts and create thought-provoking connections from the profane to the universal and transcendent. In this contemporary, philosophically grounded Pop Art, fundamental questions of humanity are reformulated and visually made accessible.
Renate von Charlottenburg approaches the same existential questions in an almost contrary way. Her pencil-ink drawings appear quiet, detailed, tender, and playful. Myths and fairy tales from East and West form the cultural resonance space of her works. The artist transforms familiar narratives into new visual worlds and develops a meta-romanticism that connects to the intellectual achievements of early German Romanticism.
Exhibition atmosphere between art and sacred space
The Pauluskirche lends a special spatial effect to the contemplation of the works. Light, architecture, and the concentrated atmosphere of the church space enter into a silent dialogue with the drawings, object images, and texts. This creates an art experience that resonates not only through color, form, and material but also through perception, memory, and inner resonance.
The exhibition invites aesthetic experience: Visitors can discover differences and connections between the two positions. Here, the precise line meets the expressive gesture, the fairy-tale meets the philosophical, and the intimate drawing meets the large-format object image.
Opening with reading and moderation
At the opening on Friday, October 9, 2026, actor Hansa Czypionka will read texts related to the images of BĀLAVAT. The event will be moderated by philosopher and publisher Andreas Mascha. Renate von Charlottenburg will be present at the opening. BĀLAVAT, who passed away in 2019, remains present through his images and writings.
The exhibition ties to the long shared history of the two artists. They were connected as a couple for nearly five decades but always worked with independent artistic expression. The joint presentation reveals how differently a spiritual attitude can take shape in painting, drawing, object art, and language.
Opening hours and visit
The exhibition can be seen from October 9 to 24, 2026, at the Pauluskirche, Grabenstraße 9, 44787 Bochum. It is open Wednesday to Friday from 3 to 7 PM and Saturday from 12 to 6 PM. Visits are also possible by appointment.
Conclusion: This exhibition opens a multifaceted approach to art, spirituality, and philosophical reflection. Those who want to experience how two vastly different visual languages question the Infinite will find a concentrated and inspiring art experience in the Pauluskirche. A visit is particularly worthwhile for all who wish to experience art not only as observation but as cultural education and aesthetic experience.
Official channels of Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT:
- Instagram: no official profile found
- Facebook: no official profile found
- YouTube: no official profile found
- Website: no official profile found
