In the face of wars, postcolonial debates, climate activism, questions of gender equality, as well as growing racism and political radicalisation, issues of mutual understanding, responsibility and solidarity are becoming increasingly urgent. In this context, empathy is gaining in importance. It refers to the ability to engage with the thoughts, feelings and perspectives of others. Empathy can help to recognise differences and enable understanding — between individuals as well as between groups and societies.

The works in the exhibition approach the theme from a range of perspectives. They engage with social, cultural and political questions surrounding empathy and show how it is negotiated in contemporary art. The art museum understands itself as a space for exchange, participation and shifts in perspective. A key element of the exhibition is therefore collaboration with people, groups and associations from Bonn’s urban community, as well as the exploration of new formats of encounter.

With works by: Ulf Aminde, Renate Bertlmann, Joseph Beuys, Candice Breitz, Philipp Gufler, Hans Hemmert, Alfredo Jaar, Franco & Eva Mattes, Katharina Mayer, Boris Mikhailov, Claudia Robles-Angel, Evamaria Schaller

Mit Werken von: Ulf Aminde, Renate Bertlmann, Joseph Beuys, Candice Breitz, Philipp Gufler, Hans Hemmert, Alfredo Jaar, Franco & Eva Mattes, Katharina Mayer, Boris Mikhailov, Claudia Robles-Angel, Evamaria Schaller