The intergenerational group exhibition Smoke and mirrors critically examines the current rupture in the political interpretation of the world. Bringing together artists from different generations and backgrounds, the exhibition reflects on how narratives are constructed, manipulated, and circulated in contemporary society. Through diverse artistic approaches, it questions the mechanisms that shape perception and influence collective understanding.

The hegemonic and ideological shifts unfolding in public discourse in Slovakia extend far beyond national borders and form part of a broader global pattern. Across many regions, democratic frameworks are increasingly challenged by the rise of authoritarian tendencies, deepening polarization, and widening social and economic inequalities. These transformations are not isolated phenomena but interconnected developments that are reshaping cultural, social, and political realities worldwide.

Through a systematic and research-driven approach, the exhibition contributes to an urgent conversation about the causes behind these changing social conditions. At the same time, it seeks to imagine new forms of solidarity, alliances, and possibilities for social reconciliation. By fostering critical reflection and dialogue, Smoke & Mirrors positions art as a space for analysis, resistance, and the rethinking of shared futures.