Dancing through Times of Uncertainty

CHAUSSEE 36  showcases two exhibitions for this year's BERLIN PHOTO WEEK. The exhibitions were conceived parallel to one another, making room for dialogue between them. The first exhibition, Dancing through Times of Uncertainty, presents the works of Magnum photographer Inge Morath (1923-2002) and Johanna-Maria Fritz (*1994), recipient of the Inge Morath Award, to commemorate Magnum Photo’s 75th anniversary. Updating a Family Album is the second exhibition on view and it features the works of the acclaimed Iranian photographer Malekeh Nayiny (*1955).

Three generations of female photographers, their distinctive documentary and artistic practices, as well as the narratives they unfold can be discovered within the exhibitions. While Inge Morath and Johanna-Maria Fritz capture life and people in countries like Iran, Palestine and Russia, Malekeh Nayiny’s works reveal her and her family's experiences as native Iranians. Nayiny’s practice provides an insider's perspective on Iran and compliments the social observations that are put forward in Dancing through Times of Uncertainty.

Dancing through Times of Uncertainty

The photographs selected for this exhibition present a more complex perspective than the images we know from our news channels of countries such as Iran, Afghanistan and Palestine. Inge Morath and Johanna- Maria Fritz’s photograph performers- jugglers, clowns, musicians and dancers- in countries known for their political conflicts and difficult living conditions. Arts and entertainment meet a harsh reality. We see people mourning by a grave at a refugee camp. We also see armed soldiers surveilling the Gaza strip, yet a colourfully dressed clown on stilts looks back at them holding his juggling pins. Creativity and freedom of expression can also be found in harsh environments.

Inge Morath documented everyday life on the streets of numerous countries, particularly Iran, throughout her career as a photographer. Her subjects included musicians, dancers and other artists. The exhibition assembles some of the photographer’s iconic works as well as her lesser-known works. The photographs, most of which were taken in the 50s and 60s, carry a timeless aesthetic that is simultaneously gentle and energetic.

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