Malzfabrik

Absurd is the first word that comes to
Mind when recalling the ATMAN exhibition. For several reasons. First because of the incompetence of the staff and their attitude. The overweight women there didn't seem to serve much purpose at all, and when asked if there was a possibility to get a drink of water they would huff and puff and say there is nothing there. Ironic as they were sitting at the counter above which a sign saying "Wasser €0.50" was prominently displayed. But enough about the fat ladies and let me tell you about the exhibition itself.

As said. Absurd. Unless of course you feel like communing with 20 other strangers in utter silence pretending to be sheep. Here's the concept: a dozen fairly good 2m/2m portraits are displayed in each a different room. In total darkness. You cannot utter a single word. You must stay with the crowd of strangers at all times and the aforementioned flock of sheep will stand one meter from the picture. So 25 people (1.8m tall) standing one meter from a 2 meter picture... I let you imagine the quality of the viewing.

Sod it. I came for the pictures so I skip ahead to see them with the appropriate quality of viewing. Only to be severely reprimanded by the fat lady (the one with the moustache) for straying away by myself.

I am sure the artist meant these pictures to be seen. Not guessed. What a waste of good work.