the salon smurago is an open yet guided space for conversations on philosophy, arts, and current matters. it’s a project i’ve been running since the beginning of 2024, with monthly sessions taking place in the pullman lounge of the ICC in berlin. each session brings together a small group of participants to dive deep into philosophical texts, artworks, and the pressing issues of our time, creating a space where everyone contributes and shapes the conversation.
in the first semester of 2024, we focused on themes surrounding messianism and philosophy of history. we explored works by walter benjamin, kafka, and derrida, threading together questions of progress, origin, and redemption. there was a strong focus on how these ideas still resonate today, as we examined the intersection between historical concepts and contemporary events.
now, we’re turning our attention to the theme images of violence, an exploration of how violence is represented, perceived, and understood in visual culture. we’re beginning with susan sontag’s on photography and regarding the pain of others, complemented by readings from adorno, benjamin, deleuze, and didi-huberman. through these texts, we are unpacking the ethical and philosophical implications of showing violence in imagery. the discussions are as rich as ever, and each session continues to build on the thoughts and insights of all who participate.
for more info contact me at hayalarissa@gmail.com or sign up for the salon newsletter: