Höhlerbiennale in Gera: Art with a political focus underground!

Höhlerbiennale in Gera: Art with a political focus underground!

On Thursday evening, July 17, 2025, the 12th Höhlerbiennale in Gera starts with an exciting focus on political issues. Under the motto "Entertainment", works by 25 international artists are presented who deal with pressing questions such as climate protection and geopolitical changes. The project manager, Gitta Heil, emphasizes that the artistic work not only reflects the current situation, but should also stimulate thought. This special exhibition takes place in the historic beer cellars under the old town of Gera, which date from the 16th and 17th centuries, and which 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 its direction, which gives the event an additional emotional aspect. The event period extends until October 17, 2025, and the German installation art prize is awarded at the end.

art in the underground area

The decision to hold the Biennale in the Höhler is gratifying for several reasons. The historical vaults not only offer a unique framework, but also reflect the topics 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. In this way, the underground space 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 also a lot going on internationally. On June 13, 2025, the 13th Berlin Biennale took place under the motto "The fleeting passing on". 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 captivity. This Biennale runs until September 14th and has settled in several Berlin locations, including the art works and the former courthouse in Moabit.

a bridge between cities and topics

A striking feature of the Berlin Biennale is the variety of new order work that deals with a wide range of topics that are often overlooked. The Argentine collective ETCIETERA presents a science fiction film about Mars, while historical initiatives are also recognized. Artists like HTEIN LIN show impressive prison paintings that were created during their detention in Myanmar, bringing urgent social issues on the screen.

Both events make it clear that the artistic expression is also possible under extreme conditions and that art always offers a platform for political discourse and social justice. Gera and Berlin, two cities with very own stories and challenges, open an important chapter in contemporary art with these Biennals and invite you to think.

The visitors are cordially invited to discover these walk -in works of art and to get an idea of the burning topics of our time. Whether in the historical catacombs of Gera’s or in the pulsating rooms of Berlin, art has its place in both cities. Let yourself be inspired!