Berlin is known the world-over for its brooding raves and for being a creative laboratory that attracts artists from around the world.
Danish artist Jakob Kudsk Steensen upholds the city’s legendary nightlife in a slightly different way. Entitled “Berl-Berl,” referencing both the first four letters of the German capital and referencing the old Slavic word for “swamp,” Berghain nightclub is literally transformed into an otherworldly swamp-like experience. Where art, gaming and technology morph into an immersive medley that is captivating, to say the least.
Despite appearing fantastical in nature, the artist extensively references reality — specifically researching the neighboring wetlands of the Berlin-Brandenburg area — to use as a focal point to this body of work. A series spanned over two floors, featuring LEDS that monitor everything, from plants, insects, the water, sky and more. Having taken thousands of images, Kudsk Steensen created 3D files of these findings to make the virtual environment on display.
Meditating on the work, Kudsk Steensen began to see the Berghain as a sort of cathedral. One in which required the human voice to bring the work harmoniously together. So he enlisted the help of Venezuelan musician Arca, whose voice blends with the raw sounds of the environment, including the amphibian noises sourced by Kudsk Steensen.
“Berl-Berl” is an exploration of time — to cherish a given environment before it withers away. You can view the exhibition, which is presented by LAS at Halle am Berghain until September 26.
Halle am Berghain
Am Wriezener Bahnhof,
10243 Berlin,
Germany
