Hans Georg Esch ranks among the world's most renowned architectural photographers. Since 1989, he has dedicated himself to capturing the essence of urban buildings and sprawling megacities through his lens. For years, he has documented the comprehensive renovation of Gasteig in Haidhausen alongside its interim home, Gasteig HP8, in Sendling. As part of the Gasteig's 40th anniversary celebration, a curated selection of his often surprising interior and exterior views is on display in a dual exhibition at both venues, titled "Experience Culture – See Architecture."

"Hans Georg Esch Views the Gasteig HP8" is the title of the exhibition at the Aspekte Gallery of the Munich Adult Education Center in Hall E of the Gasteig HP8, which will be on display there from February 6 through March 29. In several photo shoots, Hans Georg Esch has repeatedly captured the Gasteig HP8 since its opening in fall 2021 up to the present day: the former transformer hall, now converted into a foyer and library, as well as the Isarphilharmonie and the other buildings on the grounds. The interplay of old and new, of industrial design and contemporary concert hall, creates a compelling composition that not only offers inspiration to architecture firms and cultural managers, but also provides a professional photographer like Esch with numerous compelling subject matter.

Close-up details and sweeping overhead perspectives unveil the hidden geometric richness within structures that seem, at first glance, purely vertical and horizontal. Materials, transitions, and sightlines converge into compositions that border on the abstract. The practical functions of Gasteig HP8 transform into planes, forms, and colors—revealing architectural dimensions often overlooked. In spaces where visitors typically rush through, Esch discovers compelling vantage points. Where attention normally drifts, his lens isolates singular, decisive moments. The result: images that make the familiar feel fresh and revelatory.

Opening Reception: Thursday, February 5 at 7 p.m.

Hans Georg Esch in Conversation with Art Historian Raimund Stecker
Gasteig HP8
Aspekte Gallery in Hall E
Hans-Preißinger Straße 8
81379 Munich

www.gasteig.de