Saving Gotham Without The Batmobile

Björn Siebert's exhibition, Saving Gotham Without The Batmobile, unveils a captivating exploration of contemporary photographic narratives. In his latest series #1 (2024), Siebert delves into the intricate interplay between biography, fiction, and autofiction amidst the era of deliberate self-presentation and optimization. Departing from conventional documentary approaches, the artist embraces the resurgence of photofiction, navigating the complexities of interpretation amidst and diving into the chaotic sea of images flooding social media platforms.

Inspired by candid snapshots from the public albums of young amateur photographers on platforms like VSCO and Instagram, Siebert embarks on a visual journey to uncover the hidden stories within. Building upon his series Remakes (2006 - ongoing), where he transforms found amateur photo templates into striking large-format compositions, Siebert now shifts his focus to the stories of digital natives. This fragmented narrative, while less autobiographical, delves deep into the zeitgeist of contemporary net culture, weaving together diverse moods and tonalities—from euphoric hedonism to the somber ambiance of crisis years.

In Saving Gotham Without The Batmobile Siebert unveils a significant portion of his groundbreaking #1 series, comprised of approximately 400 photos captured between 2021 and 2023. Seamlessly intertwining elements from his Remakes series, Siebert presents a compelling juxtaposition that invites contemplation on how images are perceived, processed, and utilized in contemporary society. Through the exhibition, the artist not only crafts a visually arresting narrative but also prompts critical reflection on the role of imagery in shaping our identities and perceptions.