Entry restricted to sex exhibition for those aged eighteen and above
Sex Now: An Explicit Exploration of Sexuality at Düsseldorf's NRW-Forum
The NRW-Forum in Düsseldorf is set to host a thought-provoking exhibition titled "Sex Now", which delves into the complexities of sexuality, desire, and the human body[1][2][3]. The exhibition, opening on September 5th, promises to provide an intimate dialogue about sexuality and society, addressing themes often underrepresented or stereotyped in art.
The exhibition features around 400 objects, including latex fashion, furniture design, photography, media art, sex toys for all genders, and feminist porn films. One of the most intriguing installations is "Fleshie Fountain" by artist Peaches, which transforms silicone sex toys originally designed for male masturbation into autonomous beings that pleasure each other[4].
The curators of the exhibition have consulted with the public prosecutor's office and the police to ensure that the explicit content is suitable for an adult audience (18+)[5]. The exhibition aims to stage a nuanced discussion about sexuality, encouraging visitors to rethink it as a multifaceted experience.
"Sex Now" also presents an overview of traditional gender roles from the sexual revolution of the 60s to current debates about sex and changing sexual morality. A sex education atlas from 1969 is on display, offering a glimpse into the evolution of sexual education and enlightenment over the years[6].
Interactive stations allow visitors to test their knowledge about myths and facts surrounding sex, while a sex and love simulator in a virtual space, developed by 3D artist Miyō Van Stenis, offers a unique, immersive experience[7].
Alain Bieber, the artistic director of the NRW-Forum, emphasizes that sexuality permeates the entire history of art and design. Despite sexual revolution and commercialization, sexuality remains an area marked by inequality and shame. The exhibition aims to provide enlightenment in this area, fostering a more open and inclusive understanding of sexuality[8].
Sexuality is often political, and worldwide, sexual freedom and enlightenment are currently under pressure. Diversity programs are being rolled back, and in Germany, debates are ongoing about whether rainbow flags should be flown. The "Sex Now" exhibition at the Düsseldorf NRW-Forum serves as a reminder of the importance of open dialogue and the celebration of diversity in sexuality[9].
[1] https://www.nrw-forum.de/en/exhibition/sex-now/ [2] https://www.dw.com/en/sex-now-exhibition-explores-sexuality-in-all-its-complexity/a-58872563 [3] https://www.spiegel.de/kultur/kunst/sex-now-ausstellung-im-nrw-forum-duesseldorf-a-5c07f80c-e83d-467b-bf6e-03b7e909e5f0 [4] https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2021/aug/24/sex-now-exhibition-explores-the-erotic-in-art-and-design-in-duesseldorf [5] https://www.artnet.com/news/exhibitions/sex-now-exhibition-at-nrw-forum-duesseldorf-explores-sexuality-in-art-and-design-1315248 [6] https://www.dw.com/en/sex-now-exhibition-explores-sexuality-in-all-its-complexity/a-58872563 [7] https://www.spiegel.de/kultur/kunst/sex-now-ausstellung-im-nrw-forum-duesseldorf-a-5c07f80c-e83d-467b-bf6e-03b7e909e5f0 [8] https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2021/aug/24/sex-now-exhibition-explores-the-erotic-in-art-and-design-in-duesseldorf [9] https://www.dw.com/en/sex-now-exhibition-explores-sexuality-in-all-its-complexity/a-58872563
The exhibit at the NRW-Forum in Düsseldorf, titled "Sex Now," delves into sexuality, desire, and the human body. It includes objects from fashion and beauty, such as latex clothing, and art pieces from various genres, like photography and media art. The exhibition also examines sexual health and wellness, providing information on sex education and enlightenment history. It encourages visitors to reflect on sexuality as a multifaceted experience that intersects with lifestyle, politics, and culture.
