Jeff Wall film programm at Sammlung Goetz /Studio

Jeff Wall has extensively explored the relationship between photography and film in the 20th century. His exploration of film theory, auteur cinema, and modes of film led to the development of his own artistic concept: “cinematographic photography.” Wall was particularly inspired by European arthouse films by directors such as Robert Bresson, Ingmar Bergman, and Rainer Werner Fassbinder. In 1973, he began working on a film together with Ian Wallace and Rodney Graham. Although this collaborative project was never completed, the concept of storytelling through moving images left a lasting impression on Wall.

The artist stages his photographs using elaborate lighting, carefully selected actors, and meticulously selected locations. Despite this, he rejects the term “staged photography” to describe his work. In a 2024 interview, Wall said his approach was influenced by the role of photography in film rather than in theater. His photographs look like still frames from films that were never made.

In conjunction with Jeff Wall’s solo exhibition at /Schaufenster, the Sammlung Goetz is presenting a selection of films by David Claerbout, Stan Douglas, Teresa Hubbard / Alexandet Birchler, and Rodney Graham from its media art collection in the adjacent /Studio space. The film program is presented as a continuous loop on iPads equipped with headphones.