There are many ways to approach the Absolute: Art in Bochum
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Two Artistic Paths to the Absolute at the Pauluskirche Bochum
The exhibition There are many ways to approach the Absolute... brings together works by Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT for the first time from October 9 to 24, 2026. In the Protestant Pauluskirche, an artistic experience is created that makes opposites productive: quiet drawing meets powerful object art, and mythological imagery encounters philosophical reflections.
Between Meta-Romanticism and Philosophical Pop Art
Renate von Charlottenburg approaches the Absolute with pencil and ink drawings. Her detailed, tender, and playful works draw on myths and fairy tales from East and West. The artist develops an independent Meta-Romanticism that connects to the achievements of early German Romanticism and overcomes apparent opposites with witty and humorous precision.
BĀLAVAT, on the other hand, works vigorously, powerfully, boldly, and on a large scale. His object images combine visual density with lyrical and philosophical texts. Between the profane, the universal, and the transcendent, a contemporary visual language unfolds that reframes fundamental questions of humanity as philosophical Pop Art.
An Exhibition about Proximity, Contrast, and Collaborative Thinking
Both artists were connected as a couple for almost five decades but remained independent in their artistic expression. It is precisely this combination of personal closeness and stylistic difference that shapes the curation of the exhibition. The viewing of the works opens a dialogue between lines and areas, intimacy and public gesture, quiet contemplation and expressive placement.
The exhibition atmosphere of the Pauluskirche enhances this aesthetic experience. A space shaped by the sacred, light, materiality, and the concentrated presentation allow the works to appear in a special tension field. Art historical references to Romanticism, Symbolism, Pop Art, and contemporary object art become sensually tangible without limiting the works to a single interpretation.
Opening with Reading and Discussion
At the opening on Friday, October 9, 2026, actor Hansa Czypionka will read texts related to the images by 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.
Opening Hours and Artistic Experience
The exhibition is open Wednesday to Friday from 3 PM to 7 PM and Saturday from 12 PM to 6 PM; additional visits are possible upon request. The exhibition invites visitors to take time for concentrated viewing of the works and to experience the different paths to the Absolute in direct confrontation.
Conclusion: Art as a Mirror of the Infinite
This exhibition promises an intense aesthetic experience between drawing, object image, text, and sacred space. Art enthusiasts will encounter two independent positions searching for the Infinite within the Finite. Anyone who perceives art as cultural education, philosophical stimulation, and sensual artistic experience should definitely visit the exhibition at the Pauluskirche Bochum live.
Official Channels of Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT:
- Instagram: no official profile found
- Facebook: no official profile found
- YouTube: no official profile found
- Website: https://parkside-gallery.berlin/es-gibt-viele-moeglichkeiten-sich-dem-absoluten-zu-naehern/
