Gunter Binsack

In 2022, I was allowed to photograph some architectural delicacies from the 1920s and 1930s for the Haus Schminke Foundation. The photographs were used as part of the TOPOMOMO project for the book "Experimental Land of Modernity". It analyzes the problems and potential of 30 buildings in the Saxon-Czech border region. I photographed the Saxon objects and show a selection of 9 objects, most of which are located in rural areas.

The buildings are in various stages of decay. Some buildings have owners who take great care of them. They seal the roofs and look for (temporary) users. In other objects, nature reclaims the house floor by floor. Fire has an accelerating effect. What makes me even sadder than the decay is when users treat the historical building fabric insensitively and destroy it through brutal renovations.

Despite their age and decay, many of the buildings exude a certain dignity. I ask myself, what will the houses that are being built today look like in 100 years? Will they still be standing then? Have they been able to adapt to new conditions of use? Were materials used that develop an aesthetic patina or will they just look broken?

My photos are intended to help make the buildings public. Perhaps a brave investor will fall in love with one of the houses and breathe new life into it.

Opening: June 26, 2024, 6 p.m.