Lukas Städler
Hain
Gay cruising – the anonymous sexual encounters between gay men in public spaces – is for many a hidden side to Berlin. In Hain, Lukas Städler breaks old stereotypes by capturing the intimate, romantic moments of these spaces.
The term Hain brings to mind a small, peaceful grove, representing a special or sacred place. Cruising started at a time when gay people could not safely express their sexuality in public spaces. Parks and urban spots like Berlin’s Tiergarten became venues for private encounters. Even now, with dating apps providing an alternative for sexual connections, these physical spaces remain embedded in the city's layout.
Städler’s project began with frequent visits to these sites, where he built personal connections long before capturing his first photograph. Through their mutual trust, he was invited to capture uniquely intimate and poetic moments.
This exhibition has been curated as part of Emerging Berlin - our talent program for upcoming artists, showcasing unique Berlin stories.
"My intention was to present a romantic idea of those situations that confused me at the first moment. While speaking to different men and experiencing their different kind of intimacies, I recognized that this work is kind of a self-portrait, reflecting on personal questions of loving and aging."
CREDITS
The exhibition is curated by Marina Paulenka (Director of Exhibitions) and Marie-Luise Mayer (Exhibitions Associate and Project Lead for Emerging Berlin). This exhibition is in partnership with photography print partner WhiteWall.
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14 Jun 2024 — 6 Oct 2024
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