Berlin (2011-2018): Sex is kicking death (Fall 2012): Sex_title-1

Upon discovering German Expressionist graphics from the beginning of the 20th century, it is quite striking to see how often the same artists addressed both the seemingly contradictory themes of sex and death.Of course, the insouciance and enthusiasm of the first decade of the 20th century soon gave way to the horror of the first world war, and to the carnage and destruction that spread through Europe like wild-fire.Nevertheless, as one examines their multilayered meaning, both these notions of death and sex are in fact often interchangeable. In Elizabethan times {quote}dying{quote} was used as a metaphor for experiencing an orgasm. Conversely, death is seen in certain cultures as the ultimate bliss.It is in the spirit of Charles Bukowskiʼs words {quote}SEX IS KICKING DEATH IN THE ASS WHILE SINGING” that Side by Side Gallery Akim Monet explores these themes through the work of a selection of early 20th century German expressionist artists.Concurrently, in order to create a bridge to the early 21st century, the gallery has invited Berlin-based contemporary artist Satch Hoyt to respond to the German Expressionist prints.

Upon discovering German Expressionist graphics from the beginning of the 20th century, it is quite striking to see how often the same artists addressed both the seemingly contradictory themes of sex and death. 

Of course, the insouciance and enthusiasm of the first decade of the 20th century soon gave way to the horror of the first world war, and to the carnage and destruction that spread through Europe like wild-fire. 

Nevertheless, as one examines their multilayered meaning, both these notions of death and sex are in fact often interchangeable. In Elizabethan times "dying" was used as a metaphor for experiencing an orgasm. Conversely, death is seen in certain cultures as the ultimate bliss. 

It is in the spirit of Charles Bukowskiʼs words "SEX IS KICKING DEATH IN THE ASS WHILE SINGING” that Side by Side Gallery Akim Monet explores these themes through the work of a selection of early 20th century German expressionist artists. 

Concurrently, in order to create a bridge to the early 21st century, the gallery has invited Berlin-based contemporary artist Satch Hoyt to respond to the German Expressionist prints.