Susan Philipsz
Rosa, 2002/2021

Susan Philipsz
Rosa, 2002
Single channel sound installation
Duration: 1:40 minutes
Courtesy the artist

Philipsz shapes sounds, which are able to unlock memories and emotions in an exceptional way. She develops sound installations whose numerous layers are released through our movements and contemplation. Set site-specifically, her sound works deal with matters such as melancholy, loss, and mourning.
Above the entrance of KW’s courtyard is a trumpet-shaped loudspeaker, which intermittently broadcasts a song titled Rosa. The song is a hymn commemorating the German revolutionary Rosa Luxemburg and her partner Karl Liebknecht, which is often chanted at political demonstrations. Philipsz’s voice is neither sorrowful nor passionate but is reminiscent of a more private moment, as if we are overhearing someone singing to themselves. While Philipsz produced the work during her residency at KW in 2002, Rosa will be officially inaugurated on the January 15, 2021, mirroring the date Luxemburg and Liebknecht were murdered in 1919. Rosa will be played in the courtyard once a day at 12 am.

Stand up and fight and fight
We have a score to settle
Stand up and fight and fight
We have a war to wage
Oh Karl Liebknecht we have a score to settle
Oh Rosa Luxemburg!
This will be our pledge

We’re not afraid not us
Though we are bound for battle
We’re not afraid not us
As right is on our side
Oh Karl Liebknecht we have a score to settle
Oh Rosa Luxemburg!
This will be our pledge