Age restriction enforced for sex exhibition, 18 and above only permitted.
The "Sex Now" exhibition, opening at the Düsseldorf NRW-Forum on September 5th, invites visitors to embark on an intimate dialogue about sexuality and society. This multidisciplinary exhibition combines contemporary art, design, photography, and provocative objects to challenge and celebrate human sexuality openly[1][5].
The exhibition features around 400 objects across ten thematic rooms. These include various art forms such as latex fashion, furniture design, photography, media art, and erotic dolls and toys. Contributions from artists like Poulomi Basu, Tom of Finland, Paul McCarthy, and more, representing queer perspectives and new sexual realities, are also on display[1].
The show tells stories of erotic fantasies and societal views on sexuality, emphasizing diversity and freedom of expression. It offers an overview of traditional gender roles, from the sexual revolution of the 1960s to current debates about sex and changing sexual morality.
In addition to the exhibition, an accompanying OnlyFans account provides exclusive, unfiltered material related to the exhibition[1][5]. Alain Bieber, artistic director of the NRW-Forum, states that "Without sex, none of us would be here."
The "Sex Now" exhibition is presented as an offer of enlightenment in an area still marked by inequality and shame, despite sexual revolution and commercialization. Sexuality is often political, and worldwide, sexual freedom and enlightenment are currently under pressure. The exhibition highlights these issues, inviting visitors to "discover desire, bodies, and longing in all their complexity"[1].
It's important to note that the exhibition is restricted to adults (18+) due to its explicit sexual content. The exhibition is curated with consultation from the public prosecutor's office and police to ensure it adheres to appropriate guidelines[1].
The NRW-Forum is known for exhibitions on pop and digital culture and photography. This exhibition continues the forum's commitment to pushing boundaries and fostering open discussions about taboo subjects[1].
However, despite the progressive nature of the exhibition, it's worth mentioning that diversity programs are being rolled back, and debates are ongoing about whether rainbow flags should be flown, even in Germany[1].
Visitors can test their knowledge of sex myths and facts at interactive stations within the exhibition. A sex and love simulator in a virtual space, created by 3D artist Miyō Van Stenis, is also available[1].
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the display of a 1969 sex education atlas, providing a historical perspective on the evolution of sexual education and societal views on sexuality[1].
In artist Peaches' installation, "Fleshie Fountain," silicone sex toys are transformed into autonomous beings that pleasure each other, further pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in public discourse[1].
The "Sex Now" exhibition is a bold and provocative exploration of human sexuality, offering enlightenment in an area still marked by inequality and shame. It's a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art, sexuality, and society.
[1] Source: NRW-Forum Düsseldorf press release [5] Source: Interview with Alain Bieber, artistic director of the NRW-Forum, Düsseldorf
- The "Sex Now" exhibition, combining contemporary art, design, photography, and provocative objects, delves into the realms of health-and-wellness and sexual-health, inviting visitors to explore and challenge societal norms surrounding these subjects.
- The exhibition, featuring various art forms such as latex fashion, erotic dolls, and media art, also aims to foster open discussions about sexuality, further highlighting the crucial role of science in understanding and promoting health-and-wellness, including sexual health.
