Cave Biennale in Gera: Art with a political focus underground!

Cave Biennale in Gera: Art with a political focus underground!

The 12th Cave Biennale in Gera starts on Thursday evening, July 17, 2025, with an exciting focus on political issues. Under the motto “entertainment”, works by 25 international artists are presented who deal with pressing issues such as climate protection and geopolitical changes. The project manager, Gitta Heil, emphasizes that the artistic works not only reflect the current situation, but are also intended to stimulate reflection. This special exhibition takes place in the historic beer cellars under Gera's old town, which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries and are referred to by the city as “Höhler”.

With more than 200 of these underground deposits, Gera is unique and gives the Biennale a special atmosphere. The high humidity of around 95 percent can change the installations during the exhibition, creating a dynamic experience that captivates visitors. Gitta Heil will be the last to present this biennale under her direction, which gives the event an additional emotional aspect. The event period extends until October 17, 2025, and at the end the German Installation Art Prize will be awarded.

Art in the underground space

The decision to hold the Biennale in the caves is pleasing for several reasons. The historical vaults not only provide a unique setting, but also reflect the themes of the art presented. Gitta Heil emphasizes that in this special space the artists can optimally interact with the challenges and fragility of today's world. The underground space thus becomes a reflection of the uncertain political and ecological situation.

Anyone who has already had a look at the art scene knows that there is a lot going on internationally too. The 13th Berlin Biennale took place on June 13, 2025 under the motto “passing on the fleeting”. Here, 60 artists from almost 40 countries present their work and deal with topics such as freedom of expression and the challenges of their work in authoritarian systems. The focus is on the difficult conditions under which many artists have to work, including torture and imprisonment. This biennale runs until September 14th and has taken up residence in several Berlin locations, including the Kunst-Werken and the former courthouse in Moabit.

A bridge between cities and topics

A striking feature of the Berlin Biennale is the variety of new commissioned works that address a wide range of topics that are often overlooked. Argentinian collective Etcétera presents a science fiction film about Mars, while also honoring historical initiatives. Artists like Htein Lin show impressive prison paintings created during their imprisonment in Myanmar, bringing pressing social issues to the canvas.

Both events make it clear that artistic expression is possible even under extreme conditions and that art always offers a platform for political discourse and social justice. Gera and Berlin, two cities with their own stories and challenges, open an important chapter in contemporary art with these biennials and invite reflection.

Visitors are cordially invited to discover these walk-in works of art and get their own idea of ​​the burning issues of our time. Whether in the historic catacombs of Gera or in the vibrant spaces of Berlin, art clearly has its place in both cities. Get inspired!