This is not just another #vanlife story

On social media, #vanlife is often portrayed as an idealized, romantic lifestyle model - freedom, idyllic nature and harmony. The term describes traveling and living in a converted van, often associated with a minimalist lifestyle close to nature. However, this narrative rarely reflects the actual challenges of living in a confined space.

My own first vanlife experience with my partner was characterized by a confrontation with reality, far away from perfect Instagram pictures. On our 1-month trip to Spain, the cramped 8sqm space and lack of privacy pushed us to our limits. Avoiding conflict became impossible.

My partner's marijuana addiction, which escalated during our trip and ended for him in the emergency room, was particularly stressful. At the lowest point of our relationship, we had no choice but to end our trip back to Germany together - the beginning of an honest and equally painful process of change.

This personal work looks behind the romantic facade of #vanlife with a photo exhibition and an accompanying zine. There will be a reading from the zine on Saturday ans Sunday.

Reading
Saturday: 4.00 pm to 4.30 pm
Sunday: 2.00 pm to 2.30 pm