8 June – 9 July 2021
From the 8th of June to the 2nd of July, 29 ARTS IN PROGRESS gallery in Milan will present the exhibition by Silvia Lelli “KONTAKTHOF – KONTRAPUNKT”.
The exhibition will coincide with the release of the artist’s new limited edition book of the same title. Created in 1978, Kontakthof is the only performance Pina Bausch choreographed in three versions: the first with her own historic dance company and the others using non-professional teenage dancers and dancers over 65.
The book consists of photographs that interpret the triptych created by Pina Bausch, one of the most original and important choreographers in the world. During her long career as a photographer in the fields of avant-garde theatre, performing arts, dance, and music, Silvia Lelli photographed every version of Kontakthof between the years 1981 and 2010.
Kontakthof signifies place of contact: it is a story of human relationships, of the suffering and joy that animate bodies in movement. “I want to highlight how in this present moment the word ‘contact’ resonates with meaning.” – Silvia Lelli
In a continuous dialogue between dance and theatre, Lelli’s photographs represent a precious testimony and offer various reflections on the evolution of a unique journey which, through the medium of dance photography, document movements and gestures.
“I entered into the repetition of steps, of gestures and expressions” – recounts Silvia Lelli – “to try and recreate close-up, almost within touching distance of the dancers, an end result that would fully depict the dynamism and energy of the moment. There’s nothing more exciting than a choreography that’s relentlessly changing and pushing forwards creativity.”
To visit the exhibition you must book in advance by writing to us at staff@29artsinprogress.com: entrance will only be permitted on receipt of booking confirmation.
Meeting the Artist & Book Signings
It will be possible to meet the artist in the gallery on the 8th, 10th and 12th of June by booking through the email address staff@29artsinprogress.com where you can also preorder a copy of the artist’s book, available in a limited edition of only 150 signed and editioned copies 10 of which also include an original photographic print. The project was made possible thanks to the success of the recent fundraising campaign promoted by the online platform contribute.to and by the generous support of its founder and collector Nicola Erni.
Silvia Lelli: Kontakthof-Kontrapunkt