Rooted in his South Korean background and queer identity, the filmic and sculptural works of Berlin-based Young-jun Tak (b. 1989) address a global rise in religious and politically led polarization, leading to shifts including an increase in homophobia. Looking at our communal spaces—from those of clubbing to holy worship—his practice explores how populist patriotism drives forward new behavioral restrictions in a post-truth era.

Changing O—Overgaden’s architecture into a church-like structure, Tak’s first large-scale institutional solo show to date in and of itself constitutes a ritualistic space, presenting new and existing works in its several compartments.

Young-jun Tak (b. 1989, Seoul) has a degree in English literature and cross-cultural studies from Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul, South Korea. Tak has participated in major international exhibitions including the Lyon Biennale (2022), the Berlin Biennale (2020), and the Istanbul Biennale (2017).