Total Überzogen

For this exhibition, the outside of the Edith Russ Site for Media Art’s building is covered with designs by artists as well as the funders’ logos: in the form of banners, window transparencies and illuminated lettering. Inside, the exhibition hall also features works that employ a variety of the forms of advertising as it is used by the media such as Internet banners, video, magazines, posters and flyers, and audio jingles: The media art space will be completely covered inside and out: “total überzogen”.

The goal is to create a thought-provoking visual platform on the subject of representation in the cultural sphere – between artists, activists, patrons and the cultural institution itself. A one-sided critique of current concepts for cultural funding is not the intention. Rather, the Edith Russ Site for Media Art will create a strong visual impression in order to start a vital discussion. Conveying the message – equally the goal of good advertising – has also taken top priority in cultural institutions.

Sponsors and public funders increasing demands for representation has been the source of much discussion in past years and has had a great influence on the arts. This development is a double edged sword: it ties art to particular image campaigns, consequently encouraging art that can be easily consumed by mass culture. At the same time, a “creative class” of individuals in business who lend strategies from the artworld has become a large economic force. In turn, many artists have been inspired to integrate advertising aesthetics and strategies into their own artistic practices, creating very fruitful works: from the artistic appropriation of radio jingles in the 60s to anti-globalization activists turning entire ad campaigns inside-out.


A series of events will take place during the exhibition in order to create a space in which the public can watch and participate (see the symposium).

The exhibition will be presented in the format of a newspaper publication.

For the duration of 11 weeks, the building will be covered in colorful banners and dominate its environment. The Edith Russ Site for Media Art will also chase away the cold and uphold the German Christmas atmosphere with outdoor tours that offer a traditional spiced wine.

This exhibition is funded by our own budget (City of Oldenburg), the Beauftragte der Bundesregierung für Kultur und Medien (National Funds) and the State of Niedersachsen. 

We thank the company Kleinhempel as well as the Foundation of Lower Saxony for their support.