Photography can amaze us, make us doubt, or inspire belief. Not only the subject matter plays a role, but also the materiality of the photograph. Whether on glass, paper, or screen, every manifestation of the medium influences our perception. Digital processes and the use of artificial intelligence are increasingly challenging the object-like nature of photography.
Image gallery
Willi Ruge, Elly Ruge, Detail, um 1947, Silbergelatinepapier koloriert
Hermann Lehmann, Diesige Luft, vor 1923, Bromölumdruck
Heinz Hajek-Halke, Wolfgang Gruner. Aus dem Programmheft der Berliner Stachelschweine, 1959, Fotocollage: Silbergelatinepapier, Aquarell, Papier
Amin El Dib, R 1264/3. Aus der Serie GelatineSilberLichtKarton, 2002/2006, Silbergelatinepapier
What constitutes a photograph, what is it made of?
The Art Library's photography collection houses a vast array of diverse photographic objects, whose histories of life and reception are subject to constant change. Starting with a material history of photography, the exhibition explores aspects of technology, memory, and knowledge culture, tracing the medium from its beginnings to the present day.
A special exhibition of the Art Library – National Museums in Berlin
