FRANKFURT.- The Kunststiftung DZ BANK is currently hosting a powerful exhibition, "In the Grip of Wrath," showcasing the work of renowned German photographer Andreas Mühe. For over two decades, Mühe has used his lens to explore the lingering scars and unhealed wounds of German history, a mission that feels increasingly urgent in today's climate of rising radicalism.

Mühe's work isn't just about documenting the past; it's about forcing us to confront its enduring presence in our lives. As the exhibition's title, and the evocative "Mooslahnerkopf" image, suggest, Mühe delves into the darker corners of German history, from the chilling legacy of the Nazi era to the more recent horrors of domestic terrorism.

The exhibition opens with his "Obersalzberg" series, a stark exploration of the former Nazi retreat. But it's his "RAFNSU" series that truly resonates with contemporary anxieties. By juxtaposing images of the Red Army Faction (RAF) with those of the National Socialist Underground (NSU), Mühe draws unsettling parallels between left-wing and right-wing extremism, highlighting the destructive power of radicalization. He reminds us that the hatred and violence that fueled these groups continue to threaten the fabric of our society.

Beyond these politically charged series, Mühe's work also delves into the more personal and intimate aspects of German history. His "Wandlitz" series, for example, offers a glimpse into the lives of former East German officials, revealing the lingering impact of the GDR's totalitarian regime. And series such as "Mischpoche" address family history and the complicated ways in which history impacts individual lives.

What sets Mühe's work apart is his meticulous approach. He uses a large-format camera, allowing him to carefully compose each shot and reflect on his own perspective before pressing the shutter. This deliberate process invites viewers to do the same, to engage with the images on a deeper level and to consider their own relationship to the past.

Born in East Germany in 1979, Mühe's personal history informs his artistic exploration. He doesn't shy away from difficult subjects, but instead uses his art to provoke dialogue and encourage reflection. His work has been exhibited in prestigious museums around the world, and his exhibitions consistently draw large crowds and generate significant media attention.

"In the Grip of Wrath" is more than just an art exhibition; it's a call to action. It's a reminder that we cannot ignore the past, that we must confront its uncomfortable truths if we hope to build a better future. Mühe's powerful images serve as a mirror, reflecting not only the darkness of history but also the urgent need for democratic engagement in the present.