An Exercise in Defending Democracy. An event series on the Bauhaus and diversity
With this event series, we aim to provide a space to collectively explore democratic values and the importance of a diverse and inclusive society.
The Bauhaus serves as a historic point of reference for understanding our present circumstances. After all, the school existed during an era of political and social volatility from 1919 to 1933. At the Bauhaus, instructors and students taught and learned together – people from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and from all around the world.
Based on the Bauhaus, we view taking a stand as an important element of our institutional practice and as a skill that requires exercise. Exercises in material studies and paper-folding distinguished the Bauhaus preliminary course and helped students develop their individual abilities. At the same time, instructors encouraged students to explore their own convictions regarding design and social attitude. With our event series, we invite the public to engage in critical thinking, reflection and examination in order to learn from one another and practise the art of taking a stand. Against the backdrop of the historic Bauhaus and in view of recent political developments and debates, we ask:
How can we as a cultural institution and individual citizens take on greater responsibility and actively strengthen an open society?
As cultural institutions, museums are places of encounter and exchange that invite reflection and discussion on societal issues. With a mix of discussions, lectures, and creative workshops, the event series “An Exercise in Defending Democracy” addresses various aspects of a democratic and solidarity-driven society”!