zeit.de
German Church Encloses Antisemitic Sculpture with New Artwork
An antisemitic sculpture on a church in Calbe, Germany, depicting a man pressing his face into a pig's rear, will be enclosed by a new stainless steel olive branch artwork funded by church, state, and foundation resources following protests after its reinstallation during renovations.
- How did the church's response evolve since 2019, and what role did the Jewish community play in shaping the final solution?
- The artwork, titled 'Einfriedung' (Enclosure), is a stainless steel olive branch design by Thomas Leu. It addresses the church's dual responsibility: condemning antisemitism and acknowledging its historical role in fostering such hatred. The design resulted from discussions with the Jewish community.
- What specific actions are being taken to address the antisemitic sculpture in Calbe, and what is the significance of this response in the context of rising antisemitism?
- An antisemitic sculpture on a church facade in Calbe, Germany, will be enclosed by a new artwork. Funding is secured through church funds, the Ostdeutsche Sparkassenstiftung, and the Sachsen-Anhalt state cultural funding. The sculpture, depicting a man pressing his face into a pig's rear, was reinstalled after renovations, sparking protests. It's currently veiled.
- What long-term impacts might this project have on the community's understanding of antisemitism and the church's role in combating it, and what broader lessons can be learned from this approach?
- This project signifies a proactive approach to confronting historical antisemitism within the church. The 'Enclosure' artwork serves not only to visually obscure the offensive sculpture but also to foster dialogue and reconciliation. This action is particularly significant given the recent resurgence of antisemitism.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the story primarily around the church's efforts to address the antisemitic sculpture, highlighting their initiative and the funding secured. While this is positive, it might unintentionally downplay the severity of the antisemitic act itself. The headline could be improved to better reflect the gravity of the situation.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, accurately reporting events. The description of the sculpture as a "Schmähplastik" (derogatory sculpture) is appropriate given its nature. However, terms like 'christians' could be more carefully chosen. Using 'members of the Christian faith' could be more inclusive, depending on context.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the church's response to the antisemitic sculpture but doesn't delve into the historical context of antisemitism in Calbe or the broader societal factors that contribute to such incidents. The origins of the sculpture itself are only briefly mentioned. More information on the history of the sculpture and the prevalence of similar incidents in the region would provide a more complete picture.
Sustainable Development Goals
The initiative to cover a historical antisemitic sculpture with a new artwork demonstrates a commitment to combating antisemitism and promoting tolerance. This directly addresses SDG 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. The action symbolizes a rejection of hate speech and intolerance and an effort to create a more just and inclusive society.