Speaking of Video Art

Together, participants watch selected videos and read short excerpts on the spot from essays, theoretical texts, stories or poems in English or German that are connected to the works in terms of content or form.

The discussion that follows allows participants to explore both the discursive threads within the video works and the perspectives and questions raised by the group.

In October, they will watch the third film in the ‘Particular Waters’ trilogy by Su Yu Hsin. In the video, the artist explores the transition from fossil fuel extraction to the production of microelectronics at the Dresden Gittersee industrial site. To accompany the film, we will read excerpts from a text by political scientist Olaf Klenke on the microchip industry in the GDR.

They examine material from the Robert Havemann Archive of the GDR opposition concerning the protests against the devastating environmental risks posed by the silicon production planned for Gittersee. Drawing on quotations from the book *wildes wiederholen. material von unten. Dissidente Geschichten zwischen DDR und pOstdeutschland* (edited by Suza Husse and Elske Rosenfeld), they discuss whether there are lessons to be learnt today from the environmental protests of the GDR opposition.

Since 2011, the IBB Video Room has been showcasing artists who work with time-based media. The programme features works that engage with media-related, as well as political and social, issues. Particular emphasis is placed on giving space to marginalised perspectives and highlighting the effects of power structures.

The series of events is moderated by Louisa Engel, research trainee in Education and Outreach.

The sessions can be attended independently of one another. No prior preparation is required to take part. Whether you wish to participate actively in the discussion or simply listen at your leisure, both are equally welcome.

Language: The event will be held in German and English. To facilitate discussion amongst participants, all attendees should have at least a passive understanding of both languages.

Participation is free of charge; register online