Semiha Berksoy: Retrospective
Hamburger Bahnhof, Berlin (DE)
A bold, theatrical tribute in colour and form of the painter and opera singer Semiha Berksoy
Semiha Berksoy (1910–2004) embodied ‘total art,’ merging opera, painting, and performance into a flamboyant, technicolor life. Designed by Klaud, Germany’s first retrospective at Hamburger Bahnhof celebrates the pioneering Turkish artist's deep ties to Berlin and her bold spontaneous approach to painting.
The exhibition design draws inspiration from Berksoy’s colourful paintings and her operatic background. Reflecting stage design elements, Klaud incorporated mountain-shaped set pieces framing either side of the gallery, inspired by the artist’s famous Ariadne performance, carving out distinct zones within the space. These elegant structures were carefully crafted to showcase her artworks while also drawing the viewer through to a striking, large-scale photograph of the artist, a focal point at the gallery’s far end.
The exhibition design draws inspiration from Berksoy’s colourful paintings and her operatic background. Reflecting stage design elements, Klaud incorporated mountain-shaped set pieces framing either side of the gallery, inspired by the artist’s famous Ariadne performance, carving out distinct zones within the space. These elegant structures were carefully crafted to showcase her artworks while also drawing the viewer through to a striking, large-scale photograph of the artist, a focal point at the gallery’s far end.
Set within a long, singular space, the exhibition, conceived as a continuous loop, encourages viewers to experience both the front and back of the set pieces as they are invited around. The open timber structure adds a raw, theatrical quality, enhancing the interplay between polished presentation and the behind-the-scenes elements.
Vitrines with smaller paintings are embedded within the structure enriching the return journey, ensuring an engaging experience throughout. The overall design maintains a sense of fluidity and cohesion, balancing the vibrancy of Berksoy’s art with an intentionally raw, unfinished aesthetic that mirrors her expressive and fearless approach to creativity.
Location: Hamburger Bahnhof, Berlin (DE)
Year: 2024
Client: Hamburger Bahnhof
Curator: Sam Bardaouil and Till Fellrath
Team: Andreas Lechthaler, Sebastian Koepf, Barbara Wagner-Rainbird,
Thomas McLucas, Alcina Lo, Esi Calliku, Aidan Leahy, Frank Brandon
Image credits: ALA/Klaud, Hamburger Bahnhof, Jacopo La Forgia
Links: https://www.smb.museum/en/exhibitions/detail/semiha-berksoy/
Year: 2024
Client: Hamburger Bahnhof
Curator: Sam Bardaouil and Till Fellrath
Team: Andreas Lechthaler, Sebastian Koepf, Barbara Wagner-Rainbird,
Thomas McLucas, Alcina Lo, Esi Calliku, Aidan Leahy, Frank Brandon
Image credits: ALA/Klaud, Hamburger Bahnhof, Jacopo La Forgia
Links: https://www.smb.museum/en/exhibitions/detail/semiha-berksoy/