MATHIS ALTMANN

The exhibition by Mathis Altmann (*1987) in the Salle Poma of the Kunsthaus Pasquart is a continuation of the one in the independent exhibition space La Salle de bains in Lyon, which differs from the Salle Poma above all in its size: It measures barely 20 m2. The works, which already attract attention through their miniaturisation and hypnotic effects, can be experienced here in a radically altered size ratio.

Mathis Altmann's work is based on a critical observation of the physiognomy of today's metropolises, above all Berlin. The artist settled there a few years ago, just as this emblematic city of alternative culture was experiencing an acceleration process of gentrification and standardisation of lifestyles triggered by urban redevelopment plans. Altmann explores, against the backdrop of the rising influence of capitalism, personal and collective uses of space in work, home and leisure, pointing to our confusion between desire and morality. This is expressed in the sometimes rough, sometimes smooth forms of his assemblages of object, image and text. They borrow theories from economics and are peppered with references to fashion, architecture and underground culture.

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