The exhibition represents a new presentation format, called “CC - Classic Contemporary”, initiated by the Kunsthalle Erfurt.
The exhibition series will kick off with a presentation of works by Gisèle Freund (1908-2000) and Jessica Backhaus (*1970). The two artists met for the first time in Paris in 1992. For Backhaus, it was an encounter of great significance - and not only as a photographer. A special friendship developed between Backhaus, a student at the time, and Freund, the grande dame of photography. Even after the younger photographer moved to New York in 1995, the two remained in regular contact until Freund passed away in 2000.
In honour of the 100th anniversary of Freund´s birthday in 2008, Backhaus dedicated a photo series to her esteemed mentor and friend titled “One Day in November” (2005-2008). The series was not so much a classical hommage as it was a quiet, especially poetic gift of photography. Backhaus, who deeply respected and admired Freund, never dared to show any of her works to Freund while she was alive - apart from one photo.
In addition to the group of works dedicated to Freund, the Kunsthalle Erfurt will also present other photo series by Jessica Backhaus. The exhibition includes works by Gisèle Freund, chosen by Backhaus together with curator Silke Opitz.
The Kunsthalle Erfurt is especially grateful for the numerous loans provided by the Centre Pompidou in Paris and the IMEC Archives in Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe.

Jessica Backhaus - Gisèle Freund -
Curator Silke Opitz -