Muzeum Susch is launching a new exhibition and research program that focuses on 20th-century women’s photography, covering avant-garde, documentary, socially engaged, and feminist photography. This initiative aims to highlight the contributions of female photographers globally, challenging the historically male-dominated narrative of photography. The program will explore the diverse and radical approaches these women brought to the medium, often using photography as an accessible art form due to limited recognition and resources.
The inaugural exhibition, “Běla Kolářová & Emila Medková: Where No One Looked Before,” showcases the works of two pioneering Czech photographers. Emila Medková, associated with Czechoslovak Surrealism, created visually enigmatic photographs with dream-like qualities, often featuring female figures as shadowy, unsettling presences. Běla Kolářová, linked with Constructivism, used everyday objects in her photography to reveal unseen aspects of reality. She developed techniques such as ‘artificial negatives’ to capture what eludes the human eye.
Both artists used photography to unveil hidden dimensions of reality, challenging conventional perceptions. Kolářová’s works are held in major international collections, while Medková’s photographs, characterized by their complex layers and social-political tensions, are also internationally recognized. This program aims to enrich the understanding of photography’s history through the lens of these influential women.
The exhibition Běla Kolářová & Emila Medková: Where No One Looked Before at Muzeum Susch runs until November 3, 2024.
Běla Kolářová & Emila Medková: Where No One Looked Before. Muzeum Susch, Switzerland, July 20, 2024.
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Muzeum Susch, nestled in the Inn Valley amidst medieval monastery remnants and alpine mountains, opened on January 2, 2019. It blends historical structures with contemporary art, promoting innovation in response to the enchanting Engadin surroundings. Founded by Grażyna Kulczyk, the museum emphasizes female artists and matrilineal art narratives.
The complex comprises four interconnected buildings, including a former monastery and brewery, restored and expanded by architects Chasper Schmidlin and Lukas Voellmy. They respected the site’s historical significance while introducing modern minimalistic interventions. Permanent site-specific installations by artists like Monika Sosnowska, Mirosław Bałka, and others, interact with the architecture, enhancing the museum’s unique character. The Bieraria and Bieraria Veglia buildings, connected by a tunnel, house exhibitions, foundation headquarters, and a restaurant, while the Chasa della Santa and Temporars Susch serve as artist residencies.
The museum’s design, excavation into mountain rock, and incorporation of natural elements create a dynamic interplay between history and contemporary art, offering a reflective and engaging visitor experience.
