In ancient Greece, demons (daimones) were understood as intermediary beings, situated between gods and humans and closely connected to the forces of nature. They could bring blessing as well as ruin, healing as well as harm. With the rise of Christian culture, this figure lost its ambivalence. The neutral mediator became a diabolical spirit. In an increasingly polarized worldview, the demonic was associated with evil and linked to the idea of fallen angels. This binary structure—good and evil, light and darkness—continues to shape Western culture to this day. Beauty is pursued, while “disturbance” and “deviation” are avoided.
David Spaeth illuminates what is usually avoided and makes its existence visible. DEMONS is divided into two parts: Day and Night—two conditions that meet at their threshold. While the day is framed by H. R. Giger’s surreal space of creation, his private garden, the darker aspects are deliberately staged within the seemingly peaceful environment of the Sihlfeld cemetery. The accompanying magazine forms the conceptual foundation of the exhibition and brings together works, reflections, and background material related to DEMONS.
Photo print
Edition of 15 + 2Ap
41 x 58 cm
250€ each