Related by Sister Languages, Ludwig Museum, Budapest, 28 September 2018-6 January 2019

The starting point for Related Sister Languages is an historical anomaly: Estonia and Hungary are half a continent apart, yet their languages have barely diverged. If they’re tied together as “Finno-Ugric” nations, what does this mean for their futures?

Distant countries in a shared European Union; national borders but free movement; a single continent torn apart by centuries of war; changes to “national identity” and the definition of “history”: the artists on display explore all of these complex problems of 21st-century life for the Hungarians and Estonians. From painting to photography, and film to opera, different art forms are called on for the challenge.

Tanja Muravskaja reflects on the increasingly war-like atmosphere in this part of the world. Marko Mäetamm asks how global events intrude on everyday life. Hajnal Németh considers the car: a symbol of consumerism but also a thing of violence and death (crashes).

In short, many works stray into broader themes of consumerism, mass media and terrorism. This makes the exhibition relevant to everyone, not just “Finno-Ugrics”. Still, it’s especially appealing for anyone interested in Hungarian history, and eastern Europe’s place in current affairs.

The exhibition is inspired by the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, and combines outside works with a selection from the Ludwig’s own collection.

Jonny Elling