Photography is now universally recognized as a fully-fledged artistic expression, and in this room, it is showcased through the experimentation of international artists. Photographic images become reconstructions of reality or metaphors for it, revealing contrasts and similarities. Like painting, photography reflects a connection to a specific artistic and territorial identity, expressing history, thought, soul, and philosophy.
In the 1980s and 1990s, a process that began in the 1920s culminated in the recognition of photography as an autonomous art form. No longer imitating painting or sculpture, photography developed its own authoritative language, capable of exploring reality and addressing themes such as beauty, pain, and life. Today, renowned photographers are celebrated worldwide: their works are featured in exhibitions that draw large audiences, photography books and catalogs have an expansive market, and some prints achieve extraordinary valuations.
This room presents an international panorama, with photographic works originating from diverse cultures and countries. Particularly noteworthy is the collection of Asian artists, including Huan Yan, Liu Wei, Liu Young, Cang Xin, and Tae Jun Kim, alongside works by Eastern European and Western artists.
In addition to photography, the room also features installations and sculptures, the results of performances, symposiums, and acquisitions, further enhancing its exhibition value.