“Arkadia” unfolds as a kaleidoscopic vision of nature in transformation: between real blades of grass and surreal chimeras, historical echoes and present realities, the sensual loss of human control over a fragile ecosystem becomes perceptible.

For this series, the artist photographs grassland landscapes using a dichroic film placed between dry blades of grass. This creates psychedelically tinged compositions where vibrant streaks of color evoke tropical heat or AI-generated imagery. Alongside real insects, chimera-like forms emerge, suggesting mythical creatures.

The photographs were taken in Neukladow Estate Park near Berlin—once celebrated as a “Garden of Eden.” Yet, where Max Slevogt once painted, drought now prevails. As the artist works in the shimmering grass, forests burn elsewhere in Europe. In the summer heat, the film seems to sweat, accumulating dust, scratches, and condensation. This manual intervention results in images of chromatic excess, where the loss of control over a fragile ecosystem finds a sensual, even joyful, expression.

Andrea Grützner (*1984, Pirna) studied photography at Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences. Her work has been exhibited internationally, including in Australia, Brazil, Mexico, the USA, China and South Korea. She lives and works in Dresden.

Thursday, May 21, 2026, 6 – 9 pm
Opening reception