Darmstadt Secession presents light art and laser installations in the space for art
The Darmstadt Secession presents the exhibition “LIGHT CATCHERS” by Berlin artist Margareta Hesse from August 14 to October 24, 2026. The focus of the exhibition, held in the art space at Luisenstraße 16, is on works that have explored the themes of light, space, and perception for more than two decades.
Even in the entrance area, visitors are greeted by a selection of new works from Hesse's series of transparent picture objects. Created on semi-transparent polyester panels, these works change their appearance depending on the viewing angle, constantly generating new pictorial spaces. Luminous neon colors meet dark, transparent surfaces, creating striking contrasts.
In the darkened exhibition space, the focus then shifts to the artist's light art. Since 2008, Margareta Hesse has been working with lasers, developing site-specific light installations that transform historical buildings and spaces into new realms of perception. Documentary videos offer insights into international projects, including installations at the Mathildenhöhe in Darmstadt, as well as in Tunis, Mantua, and Lisbon.
The exhibition is complemented by large-format photographs and laser objects made of black glass. Among the works on display is "Caged Light I,"in which a laser beam constantly creates new light and spatial effects within a glass installation filled with fine mist.
The exhibition opens on Friday, August 14th, at 7 pm . The opening remarks will be given by Dr. Katrin Weleda from the Offenbach University of Art and Design.
The exhibition is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 4 pm to 7 pm and on Saturdays from 12 pm to 3 pm.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PM)
Featured image: "Caged Light", 2023, laser object, laser device, fans, transducer, programming. Photo: Margareta Hesse (photo)
