Allegorical representations of animals gained currency in the Middle Ages, functioning as ironic commentaries on the human condition, often bearing humanized features. The (hunting) still life genre reflects one facet of a colonizing human perspective on animals––a popular motif in Flemish Renaissance painting. Animal bodies are displayed as precious prey. Thanks to detailed reproduction specific features of their bodies and breed, they bear witness to an increasing interest in the (natural) scientific systematization of the environment in Central Europe. In the 20th century, artists often juxtaposed the notion of the animal to unveil supposedly genuinely human qualities. In contrast, contemporary approaches highlight a perspective of the common––an encounter between humans and animals at eye level, in which the latter can both withdraw from the mutual gaze as well as return it. The current theoretical discourse raises the question of a resilient and respectful coexistence of humans and other living beings, e.g., in hybrid or posthuman forms of cohabitation that consider the local and planetary perspectives. For several decades, philosophy tried to define and reflect the (in-)human differing from the animal. Jacques Derrida‘s thoughts on the human being using clothing and language in distinction from animals are well-known in this context. Feelings of shame that assailed the naked author himself when he was suddenly at the mercy of his cat‘s gaze inspired him to deconstruct the seemingly distinct boundary between subject and object.

The first exhibition in cooperation with the Ursula Hauser Collection “Animals We Are Ourselves” is linked to the seminar on “Art & Collecting” taught by Laura Bechter and Dr. Gabrielle Schaad. It puts the focus on questions of (art-historical) reference in contemporary art in the example of animal representations and, on a technical level, on matters of conservation and art handling. The subsequent two presentations will feature works by alumni and faculty in a dialogue with external creative positions. Centered around works from the Hauser Collection that have rarely been on public display, these presentations will coalesce into loosely cohesive thematic exhibitions probing questions concerning the boundary between art and design, materiality, forms of physicality, and other issues.

Curated by Elsa Himmer and Gabrielle Schaad.

Animals We Are Ourselves
November 18–December 2, 2021
Opening: Thursday, November 18, 2021, 6–9pm

Please register via nest.exhibitions@zhdk.ch