28/05/2026
Signs of the Times: Unmasked
DAY 4 / 5
Welcome to Day 4 of “Signs of the Times: Unmasked,” our weekly series exploring the layers of Karolina Żyniewicz’s ongoing exhibition, on view until June 7.
Today, we focus on the fridge containing the mask sample collection.
During each Sunday interview, visitors are asked to wear a mask for the whole conversation. This simple act brings back memories of the pandemic, making the mask central to the Covid-19 story not only as protection, but also as a witness.
Masks quietly hold traces of our biology. In the small space between fabric and skin, a unique environment forms, capturing every breath we take. Over time, these masks are home to invisible, nonhuman life forms.
What kinds of microorganisms were found on the masks collected after the interviews? Among the twenty different bacteria identified were Cronobacter sakazakii, Brucella intermedia, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The complete list is available in the gallery.
The fridge keeps these masks for future study, showing that “Signs of the Times” is not a finished exhibition but an ongoing research project with no set end.
Come experience the exhibition, and most importantly, share your story (and maybe your nonhuman companions) during the Sunday interviews on May 31 and June 7.
OPENING HOURS
Running time: 25 April – 7 June 2026
Thu - Sun, 2 – 6 pm
CURATORS
Regine Rapp and Christian de Lutz
COOPERATION
Kontejner, Zagreb
SUPPORTED by
Werkleitz and EMAP/ EMARE
and the Berlin Senate Office for Culture and Social Cohesion
Photos: ALB Team