About this Event
Join us and artist Boris Schaarschmidt on Thursday, May 14th, 2026 from 7-9:30 PM for the opening reception for the multi-media installation NOT A LIFESAVING DEVICE.
NOT A LIFESAVING DEVICE is comprised of a series of photogrpahs and video art created by Los Angeles-based artist Boris Schaarschmidt in December 2023, during the Arctic Circle Expeditionary Residency aboard the sailing vessel Antigua.
As AI-generated images increasingly blur the boundaries between reality and fabrication, Schaarschmidt's works embrace that ambiguity: although they may appear artificial, they are entirely real. In the context of global warming, non-native species are increasingly moving into fragile ecosystems, symbolized here by an inflatable flamingo, an object radically out of place in the Arctic.
Simultaneously, the inflatable pool float references the rapid growth of tourism in polar regions, where leisure increasingly overlaps with vulnerability. The phrase "NOT A LIFESAVING DEVICE," printed by the manufacturer directly on the object itself functions as a literal safety warning and a symbolic statement: In moments of real emergency, this device offers no protection.
Admission is free.
All ages are welcome.
Light refreshments provided
PROGRAM:
6:30 PM Doors open.
7:00 PM Welcoming + Introduction
8:15 PM Artist Talk
9:30 PM End of Event
THIS IS NOT A LIFE SAVING DEVICE is on view at the Goethe-Institut from May 14th - 28th, 2026
During Office Hours: May 14th - 28th, 2026
Tuesday–Thursdays: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Fridays: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Secure, free Parking is available at Metro/Retail parking structure with rear entrance to the Goethe-Institut located at
Public transport is possible with the red line to MacArthur Park/Westlake stop. Using carpool or ride-share options are appreciated.
Reception beverages generously provided by AMI Group.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Goethe-Institut Los Angeles Project Space, 1901 W. 7th St., Los Angeles, United States
USD 0.00
