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"Turgor" is an engaging installation exhibition by two emerging Estonian artists, Ilja Jakovlev and Daniil Logovoi, which questions and connects the two eternally opposing systems of human society, religion and science. Both are always challenged and influenced by each other, which seems quite similar to how the membrane and outer wall of a biological cell exert forces on each other. The last phenomenon is called turgor pressure, which is also the main inspiration for the title and metaphorical theme of the exhibition.
Full of curious conflicts and connections, the exhibition functions as a living cell ready to burst from its internal pressure. The works of Yakovlev and Logovoi are created with the same goal, but are strongly opposed. Yakovlev's bright, colorful and delicate paintings seek to explore biology in Christianity, while Logovoi depicts Orthodox icons as processing units in his dark and cold works. Inspired by Nikolai Gogol's horror novel "Viy", the artists build a mysterious Orthodox church covering the entire exhibition space, inside which the artworks are presented as religious images.
The artists' unique perspectives on religion and spirituality are experienced to the accompaniment of soothing music and intimate lighting.​
Exhibition is funded by Eestonian Culture Capital and Eestonian Embassy in Berlin.


Text: Maria Tesla 
Curators: Ilja Jakovlev, Daniil Logovoi

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