Kurvenlage provides an insight into the culture of soccer fans. A look at and from the curve as the center of fan culture – but also beyond that, as a symbolic place that stands for a special passion. It is no longer just a question of sport, but of origin and affiliation, connection, letting go, security – losing oneself in the crowd and finding a place within. A sense of togetherness that can create identity. But also a feeling that gives rise to borderline behavior: Soccer and its fan culture also implies hostility, toxic masculinity, problematic mass movement, territorial behavior and violence.

The situation in the curve is a political issue, a reflection of our society, with all its ambivalences. A space with contradictions: Friendship and animosity, sadness and joy. A community that defies differences and yet is divided by them.

It is precisely this area of tension that Kasimir Weichert shows with the exhibition Kurvenlage. The aesthetics of the works and the thoughts they inspire show this ambiguity. Kurvenlage is his view of Hertha fans, not as an outside observer, but as part of them. The use of a discreet analogue camera also allows him to remain part of the action without being perceived as an intruder. The resulting relationship of trust weakens the scepticism of fans towards the camera.

Kasimir Weichert works with a fascination for the dynamics of fan crowds, their self-dramatisation, their symbols and rituals as well as the social aspects behind the fan cult.

With Kurvenlage, fan culture also becomes tangible for people outside the scene. The photographs create a bridge. They bring the subject matter into a different, discursive space – without leaving out ambivalences.

Ena Kamenkovic & Charlotte Detig

 

Kasimir Weichert

Curated by Ena Kamenkovic & Charlotte Detig

Opening Friday 08.11 – 6 pm