He creates haunting lighting scenarios and coaxes what’s hidden out the past. We’re talking about Ian Strange. The Australian artist transports us to a place where history has long since slid into obscurity, one interwoven with the shadows of the past and imbued with a deep emotional intensity. But his luminous installations bring this history back to light. He allows us to feel the forgotten fates and reminds us that past and present are inextricably linked. In Krems, Strange has found a place where his art is not only made visible, but tangible as well.

In spring 2024, during his stay at AIR – ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Niederösterreich, Strange realized in Gneixendorf near Krems a project deeply rooted in the history of the region. He chose a historically significant location as the setting for his work: the site of the former Stalag XVII-B prisoner of war camp. Strange worked with a special photographic technique that utilizes fireworks as a light source. He has employed this method in previous works. The unusual lighting creates a haunting atmosphere, making visible what’s invisible.

Strange’s images are not only impressive aesthetic achievements, they are also profound. They prompt viewers to reflect on the past and its impact on the present. The artist invites the viewer on an emotional journey that leaves a lasting impression.

Strange has gained attention in recent years primarily for his large-scale art installations transforming abandoned or destroyed houses into works of art. He deals with the theme of “home” and architecture’s emotional effects. The works critically examine concepts of safety, identity, and the physical and emotional space a home provides. His installations and photographs question the relationship between people and their homes, often incorporating dark and surreal elements.

From the suburbs of Australia to the ruins of Detroit, his images are both a tribute to what has vanished and an exploration of what remains today. Ian Strange skillfully combines history with art.

His project in Gneixendorf follows in this tradition and adds another profound layer to his previous work by reinterpreting the history of a particular place through his artistic perspective. It was created with the support of museumkrems and Galerie Stadtpark. The works will be exhibited at the IG Bildende Kunst in Vienna in 2025.