Andreas Gefeller: Works 2023–1996

Optical illusions that reveal a hidden reality

“Like a visitor from outer space, I try to take a look at the human habitat from the outside - curious, but also with horror.” Exploring the possibilities of the photographic medium to the limits, Andreas Gefeller explores the liminal space where reality takes on the quality of a phantasmic phenomenon. From early documentary series to unusual perspectives and digital multi-image collages, this publication brings together previously unpublished photographs, key images from Gefeller’s well-known series as well as his recent work. The retrospective reveals how the artist uses techniques ranging from extreme long- and overexposures to high-speed flashes to challenge our visual perception. Examining the human influence on nature, he creates images of an almost sublime abstract-painterly quality and then breaks the enchantment to reveal the hidden reality of the seemingly familiar.