





Membrane
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| Editor(s) | Gerd Weggel, Neue Galerie Gladbeck e.V. |
| Author(s) | Thomas Hirsch, Gerd Weggel, Detlef Wiegand |
| Design | Sichtvermerk, Stefan Claudius and Jonas Brüggemann |
| Size | 20.5 x 27.5 cm |
| Cover | Linen hardcover |
| Pages | 120 |
| Illustrations | 68 |
| Language(s) | German |
| ISBN | 978-3-96912-251-8 |
Membrane documents an eponymous exhibition at the Neue Galerie Gladeck as well as the gallery’s architectural extension. The works of the 7 invited artists are engaged to explore skin in a broader sense—membrane also encompasses clothing, veiling, and masking from various cultural perspectives. Well-known portraits by Thomas Ruff, Shirin Neshat, and Cindy Sherman appear in a new light alongside Helena Parade Kim’s exploration of iconographic and ceremonial fashion codes, Daniel Buetti’s critique of the commercialized body, and Nicola Samorì’s exploration of skin in historical masterpieces. The membrane concept also inspired the exterior and interior surfaces of the new gallery building, and an interesting text by the architect reveals his approach.
Artists: Daniele Buetti, Sławomir Elsner, Shirin Neshat, Helena Parada Kim, Thomas Ruff, Nicola Samorì & Cindy Sherman
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