Acclaimed exhibition “Suitcases,” by artist and anti-war activist Konstantin Benkovich, on display at Constructor University

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Exhibition “Suitcases” by artist and anti-war activist Konstantin Benkovich in IRC building at Constructor University
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(source: Constructor University)

This winter, “Suitcases,” a powerful and interactive work of art, will call Constructor University home. After a successful stay in London, Finland-based and Saint Petersburg-born artist and anti-war activist Konstantin Benkovich is displaying his interactive metalwork construction in Bremen. Constructor University invites the public and students alike to take in and interact with the incredible exhibition through the sharing of personal experiences on the Reflection Wall. The temporary art installation will be on display in the IRC building in Bremen for the next three months, before it continues its journey to its next destination: Milan.

The stunning installation features 22 large-scale 3D metal-frame suitcases, transforming simple, familiar objects into a compelling work of art. “We are honored to bring this insightful art installation to our campus,” said Isabel Wünsche, Professor of Art and Art History at Constructor University. “In his work, Konstantin Benkovich focuses on forced emigration and sudden displacement; his colorful assembly of cage-like suitcases reminds us of art’s power to inspire empathy and provoke meaningful conversations about global challenges.” To promote further engagement with the exhibit at Constructor University, the "Reflection Wall" encourages visitors to reflect on their personal experiences and emotions related to the theme of "Suitcases." They can write these reflections or thoughts on luggage tags provided and hang them on this wall.

Benkovich’s sculptures have captivated audiences in London, Edinburgh, Tel-Aviv, Moscow and Saudi Arabia and been on display in museums around the world. His work has earned praise from Forbes, The Independent and Mission Magazine, as well as civic leaders from Edinburgh. The unveiling of “Suitcases” is part of Constructor University’s broader commitment to fostering innovation at the intersection of art and technology through initiatives such as the CultTech Initiative. This collaboration between Constructor University and the CultTech Association Vienna was established to bring together the best of culture and technology, supporting visionary projects that break boundaries and redefine possibilities in both fields.
 

About the artist 
Born in Saint Petersburg, Russia in 1981, Konstantin Benkovich constructs his works using steel rebar and applying welding and forging techniques. He considers his installations to be “manifestos of resistance to dictatorial power and control.” World-renown museums and art centers have displayed his works, including the Saatchi Gallery in London, the State Russian Museum in St. Petersburg, the Multimedia Art Museum in Moscow, among others. His art and its anti-war and anti-regime stance have influenced millions in Russia, which in turn drew the ire of the Russian authorities. He fled his native Russia in 2022 and is currently based in Finland.

 

Questions answered by:
D. Scott Peterson | Corporate Communications
dpeterson@constructor.university | Tel.: 0172 367 7317

Media Contacts
Name
D. Scott Peterson
Function
Corporate Communications 
Email Address
presse@constructor.university
Phone number
+49 172 3677317