Artists Statement

Constanze Flamme

Scholarship Visual Arts 1.1. – 31.3.2024

What made you apply for the otte1 scholarship?
The prospect of a productive hibernation at the coast in Winter and returning to Schleswig-Holstein after many years. Time to read and dive deep into my archives with time generosity and close proximity to the sea, which is a recurring theme in my body of work.

What did you work on during your stay?
New environments allow new insights. It was very valuable to have time to combine research and different facets and aspects of the work. I have started a new work dealing with the Baltic Sea and rediscovered developing black and white films in the bathroom. It is always a touching moment to hold the negative in my hand after the alchemy. A chapter of my long-term documentary Toxic River/Hurt River was part of a reappraisal during this time and part of the final exhibition “The fragile skin of the world”.

What inspired you at the Künstlerhaus in Eckernförde?
Silent winter days and misty seascapes. The sea itself. It felt like: I have a date each day. The friendliness of the locals. Cold plunges. The view to the garden. Reading.

What do you take away from Eckernförde for your further artistic development?
The need for time off to slow down – outside a big city – in contrast to projects that involve traveling and a lot of movement.

What would you like to add?
Thank you to the board and your support along the way that led to the exhibition. It stays in fond memories.