The Sea Between Us – 5 Years of Dialogue

The title of the exhibition “The Sea Between Us” symbolizes both the distance and the connection embodied by the sea
Institut français, July 1, 2025
The title of the exhibition “The Sea Between Us” symbolizes both the distance and the connection embodied by the sea — a vast and dynamic element that links cultures, histories, and ecosystems. This exhibition pays tribute to five years of curatorial engagement and cultural exchange, while also anticipating the role of art as a catalyst for awareness and change. It has been organized in close collaboration with the Consulate General of France and the Institut français in Hamburg, on the occasion of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference, taking place in Nice from 9 to 13 June 2025.
 
Eight international artists explore the fragility and beauty of our natural world. The sea — a vital yet threatened ecosystem — becomes a symbol of transformation. Through diverse media and styles, Yannick Ackah, Belén, Nathalie David, François Martinache, Stella Meris, Ngoye, Karolin Schwab, and Yeanzi address ecological urgency and the complex relationship between humanity and nature.
 
The works range from sculptural interventions and powerful paintings to mixed media pieces and conceptual installations. The artists create dialogues between aesthetics and activism, personal expression and global relevance — whether through abstract underwater worlds, critical reflections on the environmental consequences of colonialism, or the use of recycled materials. They invite viewers to reflect on the future of our planet.