10 Questions with Karin Rehn-Kaufmann

10 Questions with Karin Rehn-Kaufmann

The Future Now Symposium is an exploration of 21st century culture through the mechanism of art, running 28 April – 1 May. This multidisciplinary four-day virtual event brings together key institutions, galleries, publications and artists for live-streamed discussions surrounding the most pressing issues from today’s creative industries. Through imaginative debates, panel discussions, career advice and cultural engagement, Future Now is a platform for idea generation.

Future Now finds a new home in an accessible online space for 2021. This year, our sessions are available to stream from the comfort of your home. Ahead of this year’s event, we ask our key speakers 10 questions. 


Name, title and organisation?

Karin Rehn-Kaufmann, Art Director & Chief Representative, Leica Galleries International.

How would you describe your role?

I take care of 25 Leica Galleries around the globe and curate exhibitions. I have also been a jury member of the Leica Oskar Barnack Award since 2008.

The best part about what you do?

Connecting with wonderful photographers from all over the world.

Your most significant project to date?

Our photography shows and talks in Cologne, including Photography meets Music. The themed exhibitions feature more than 15 different displays, with each photographer represented by a different colour wall.

Favourite piece of art?

I adore anything that is creative and inspiring – whether that be photography, music, sculpture or painting.

The best in-person or virtual exhibition / event you’ve attended in the last year?

40 years of Leica Oskar Barnack Award at Ernst Leitz Museum, Germany.

Biggest take-away from 2020?!

Be flexible and never stop engaging with culture.

Lessons to take forward into 2021?

Photography should create a positive impact through clear, emotive and honest storytelling. My vision is to present and curate more exhibitions that trigger lasting social change.

What are you most looking forward to exploring in your session at Future Now?

The importance of photography and the Leica Oskar Barnack Award.

Other sessions you’re looking forward to attending?

Documentary and Ethics with London College of Communication, Curating During a Time of Change and Images that Change the Way We See the World with photographers from Aesthetica Magazine.


Karin Rehn-Kaufmann will speak on Environmental Photography: How Can Images Save Us?, Thursday 29 April, 11:00 – 12:00 BST.

The Future Now Symposium runs 28 April – 1 May (Live), 2 – 31 May (On Demand). Tickets are available now, starting from £20.