Words by Ann-Kathrin Riedl Every Portrait Is a Universe: Diane Arbus at Gropius Bau Berlin is about to get an unforgettable encounter with photography: "Diane Arbus: Constellations" opens at Gropius Bau in October 2025, presenting the most ambitious exhibition of the legendary artist to date. Over 450 works will be on display, including numerous never-before-seen images that reveal Arbus’ singular vision of the world. Diane Arbus, Two female impersonators backstage, N.Y.C. 1962 © The Estate of Diane Arbus, Collection Maja Hoffmann/LUMA Foundation Words by Ann-Kathrin Riedl She is a legend of photography and a masterful, deeply sensitive storyteller: Diane Arbus (born 1923 in New York City) was captivated by those living on the margins of society – from circus performers and drag queens to children and nudists. She photographed with a rare mix of curiosity, empathy, and uncompromising honesty. Her square-format Rolleiflex camera became a tool for making the invisible visible, capturing intimacy and confrontation in equal measure. Now, Gropius Bau in Berlin is dedicating an extensive exhibition to one of the most influential and visionary artists of the 20th century: “Constellations.” What awaits visitors? The perspective of a woman deeply fascinated by human existence — a keen observer who portrayed postwar America in all its diversity like few others. Diane Arbus, Woman on the street with parcels, N.Y.C. 1957 © The Estate of Diane Arbus, Collection Maja Hoffmann/LUMA Foundation Diane Arbus, A child crying, N.J. 1967 © The Estate of Diane Arbus, Collection Maja Hoffmann/LUMA Foundation Curator Matthieu Humery describes Diane’s gaze: “She had a magical way of finding something hard to define or describe – that’s what makes her a great artist. She could see what others might overlook or not care to look at.” That sensibility can be experienced throughout the exhibition: instead of being arranged chronologically or thematically, it invites visitors to drift freely, to find connections between portraits, and to encounter something unexpected at every turn. The labyrinthine design and black mesh walls enhance this sense of exploration — as if you yourself become part of the photographs. Diane Arbus, Lady bartender at home with a souvenir dog, New Orleans, La. 1964 © The Estate of Diane Arbus, Collection Maja Hoffmann/LUMA Foundation Diane Arbus, Triplets in their bedroom, N.J. 1963 © The Estate of Diane Arbus, Collection Maja Hoffmann/LUMA Foundation Diane Arbus’ influence on contemporary art is immense — artists such as Nan Goldin and Wolfgang Tillmans owe her a great deal. As Humery notes: “Many people are still afraid to look at difference. Her work endures because of that – not because it’s ‘classic,’ but because it’s truthful.” With its openness and diversity, Berlin provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate Arbus’ vision of a world rich in difference — one always approached with curiosity and respect. A vital message in times like these, proving that Diane Arbus’ work remains as timeless and socially relevant as ever. Diane Arbus: Constellations Dates: 16.10.2025 – 18.01.2026Location: Gropius Bau, BerlinAddress: Niederkirchnerstraße 7, 10963 BerlinTickets Read Next Interview with Charlie Stein, on painting as a radically contemporary medium at Kunsthalle II, Mallorca The Verdict Is In: Selin Davasse on Performance, Law, and Accountability FRÄULEIN x CHARLIE STEIN x DR. HAUSCHKA DINNER
Interview with Charlie Stein, on painting as a radically contemporary medium at Kunsthalle II, Mallorca
