ROOTS – An immersive exhibition in Basel
30 August – 17 November 2024
ROOTS
TEASER ZUR AUSSTELLUNG
https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/998155052
The exhibition revolves around the fascinating figure of Russian-born German artist Walter Spies (1895 – 1942), whose influence on Bali’s cultural landscape reverberates today. Spies’ legacy is deeply intertwined with Bali’s contemporary narrative, and ROOTS aims to show his profound impact while exploring the island’s postcolonial legacy over the last century.
At the heart of ROOTS lies Villa Iseh, a retreat built by Spies in 1937 in Iseh, Karangasem. Initially a sanctuary for Spies, it later became a popular destination for the rich and famous, including David Bowie, Yoko Ono, and Mick Jagger.
Visitors will be invited to explore the maze of rooms in the villa, from the reception to bedrooms, corridors, living areas, and a pool room. The exhibition will examine the themes of mass tourism, environmental degradation, and the complex interplay of cultural identities in Bali.
Highlights include works by the painter Made Bayak and the graphic artist Gus Dark, who explore the Balinese struggle to preserve their cultural identity amidst contemporary challenges.
Excerpts from Michael Schindhelm’s docu-fiction film ROOTS will accompany the exhibition. The film presents Walter Spies as a spectral presence navigating Bali’s modern landscape.
