“There Are Many Ways to Approach the Absolute…” in Bochum
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Between Finite and Infinite: Art as an Approach to the Absolute
At the Evangelical Pauluskirche Bochum, starting from October 9, 2026, the works of Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT will be presented together for the first time. The exhibition “There Are Many Ways to Approach the Absolute…” brings together two independent artistic positions that have been shaped by mutual inspiration over decades while developing distinctive visual worlds.
A Dialogue of Two Extraordinary Artistic Languages
BĀLAVAT works with energetic, powerful, and large-format object images. His art combines graphic forms with lyrical-philosophical texts, spanning wide arcs from the profane to the universal and transcendent. The exhibition showcases a contemporary, philosophically influenced pop art that translates fundamental questions of humanity into an immediate visual language.
Renate von Charlottenburg approaches the same big questions in a quiet, detailed, and playful manner. Her pencil-ink drawings draw on motifs from Eastern and Western myths and fairy tales. With fine line work, poetic precision, and humorous breaks, she develops an independent meta-romanticism that connects art historically to the achievements of German early Romanticism and transforms them into a modern visual world.
Artwork Examination in a Sacred Space
The Pauluskirche creates a special exhibition atmosphere for this exhibition. Between architecture, light, and quiet spatial effect, an art experience unfolds that shifts the boundaries between gallery, church, and contemplative experience space. Object images, drawings, text, and the sacred environment enter into a rich dialogue of tension.
The aesthetic experience arises from the contrast of the artistic processes: Here, expressive color and form effects meet, there, delicate lines, narrative details, and symbolic image spaces. The curation reveals how differently art can confront the ungraspable and how closely opposites can connect within a shared spiritual attitude.
Opening with Reading and Moderated Discussion
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. BĀLAVAT, who passed away in 2019, remains present through his images and writings.
The exhibition also holds special significance for cultural education: It invites reflection on spirituality, myth, transcendence, and the role of art in a secular present. The works do not provide a definitive answer but create visual spaces for perception, reflection, and personal interpretation.
Opening Hours and Visit
The exhibition will be on view from October 9 to 24, 2026, at the Pauluskirche Bochum. It is open Wednesday to Friday from 3 PM to 7 PM and Saturday from 12 PM to 6 PM. Visits are also possible by request.
Conclusion: An Exhibition Between Poetry, Philosophy, and Transcendence
“There Are Many Ways to Approach the Absolute…” gathers two artistic positions that understand the finite as a mirror of the infinite. The exhibition promises an intense examination of the works, an unusual spatial effect, and an inspiring encounter with painting, drawing, object art, and philosophical visual language. Art enthusiasts should experience this special art event live at the Pauluskirche.
Official Channels of Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT:
- Instagram: no official profile found
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- Website: no official profile found
