Renate Bertlmann. AMO ERGO SUM. A subversive policy programme

AMO ERGO SUM

In the 1970s, Renate Bertlmann was active as a feminist pioneer with exhibitions, performances and actions in Vienna, Bologna, Cologne and New York. Through the rediscovery of the VERBUND COLLECTION, her work is currently experiencing a high level of attention. In the exhibition in the Vertical Gallery, authentic reconstructions of installations can be seen, some for the first time in Austria. A total of 40 works are on display, including many photographs, drawings, objects and films mainly from the 1970s of the VERBUND COLLECTION, which are supplemented with works by the artist.

Renate Bertlmann dedicated herself to a rebellious spirit. Her art refers almost obsessively to our bodies, penetrates their intimate zones and gives them a voice. She emphasises sexuality, touch and suppression and makes these the stage of her action. It is about nothing less than the creation of a personal kósmos (ancient Greek for world order). She calls her kósmos AMO ERGO SUM (I love, therefore I am) and with it makes reference to Descartes’ Cogito Ergo Sum (I think, therefore I am). She has been developing her art in the areas of pornography, irony and utopia for five decades. Bertlmann succeeds in ironically undermining patriarchal suppression through the symbol of the phallus. Thus she assumes a singular position in Austrian art.

 Photos: © Karl Kühn, Vienna