The exhibition “Present Tense” was developed in close collaboration between the HfG Karlsruhe (Department of Media Art) and Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences (Department of Design). It brings together ten photographic projects by students from both institutions. The works were developed under the supervision of Karolina Sobel and Prof. Susanne Kriemann (HfG Karlsruhe) as well as Prof. Robin Hinsch and Prof. Sara Maierefofer (Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences).

The exhibition opens on April 24, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. in the Department of Design at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences.

The focus is on the present as a fragile, dynamic state—marked by uncertainty, upheaval, and continuous change. “Present Tense” understands the now not as a fixed moment, but as a multifaceted process between social, technological, and personal changes. At the same time, the works reflect on photography itself: as a medium situated between documentation, subjective perception, and a transforming visual culture.

What connects these works is an approach rooted in proximity, presence, and exchange. Here, photography appears as an active act—as a means of sharpening perception, making relationships visible, and allowing realities to be experienced. The exhibition invites visitors to discover the present in all its complexity, fractures, and contradictions—and to develop new perspectives on the here and now.

Featuring works by:
Romy Rollshausen, Dakang Wang, Flora Güldenpfennig, Anastasiya Sultanova, Charly Burfeind, Leander Elfers, Leah Fritsch, Tobias Ehrhardt, Laura Waterstradt, Stina Hellmann

Exhibition dates:
April 24 – April 30, 2026

Location:
Department of Design | Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences
Olbrichweg 10
64287 Darmstadt