Exploring ‘Conspiracy Theory’: Artists Challenge Perception at XL Projects Berlin

Chodowiecki Strasse and XL Projects Berlin

Chodowiecki Strasse is a quiet street in Prenzlauerberg, East Berlin. This area was once the center of the punk revolution, now transformed into a desirable neighborhood. The punks have grown up and need family amenities. Wealthy residents have also moved in, creating a mix of cultures. Today, the street features kindergartens and trendy restaurants, especially beautiful with autumn leaves covering the cobblestones.

XL Projects Berlin is located at house number 25 on this street. It is a communal workspace for artists and hosts curated exhibitions. It is not a traditional gallery nor a typical artist-run space.

Exhibitions and Relocation

The inaugural exhibition, “Boarding Is Open,” took place at Leipziger Strasse 63. This area has many notable galleries. After only two months, artists were evicted due to building renovations. The exhibition focused on the feelings of being in transit, a theme relevant to many today. Shortly after, the artists moved to Prenzlauerberg.

Now, the exhibition titled “Conspiracy Theory” is on display. Curated by Elena Selina, it explores people’s desire for simple explanations in a complex world. The exhibit text explains that:

“Conspiracy theories assume the presence of struggle for power and political influence, the search for national identity, and military conflicts, leading to unprovable theories and an inability to accept reality.”

Featured Works

The exhibition opens with gold-painted prints by Andrey Monastyrsky titled “Male Mosquito Genitalia.” These prints gained significance in 2022 after a Russian UN envoy claimed that NATO planned to use ‘combat mosquitos.’

Next is the “Walking Algorithm” by MishMash. It acts as part cabinet of curiosities, part model of a social project, documenting how people interact with city dynamics. Rotating signs with questions guided people through the city, demonstrating how unseen forces affect their routes.

Another exhibit is the video “Mute” by Alex Buldakov. In this piece, serious TV narrators stare silently at the audience, raising questions about unspoken truths. In collaboration with Anastasya Ryabova, Buldakov presents “Attentionwhores,” highlighting how everyday items gain importance when viewed closely.

ZIP’s “Briefcase”

ZIP presents “Briefcase,” a large piece of luggage containing items for illegal border crossing. It symbolizes both a dissident’s toolkit and a spy’s gadget. The painted maps reflect frustration and paranoia, blending conspiracy ideas. Plastic bottles often found in Berlin are tucked into the corners, representing everyday currency.

Alexander Povzner’s Drawing

Lastly, Alexander Povzner’s large drawing displays life-size figures reduced to clothes hanging in a drawer. This piece emphasizes discarded identities and how people can feel interchangeable.

Visitor Experience

Visitors must make appointments to see the exhibition. When they arrive, worktables are cleared to create space. The exhibition accompanies lectures and discussions. Recently, poet Alexander Delfinov spoke about obscure beliefs throughout history.

In summary, the exhibition offers a unique perspective on current societal issues. It invites visitors to reflect on beliefs and the layers of reality we navigate today.