Hideouts: Architecture of Survival: Reflections on the Exhibition by Natalia Romik

Natalia Romik has identified and examined several hideouts that still exist in occupied Poland, using sculptural forms to convey their delicate materiality and charged history. This book offers a multiplicity of voices to complement Romik's work and raises the question of the function of art and architecture in relation to history, violence, and cultures of public commemoration.

Format: Hardback
Length: 148 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2024
Publisher: Hatje Cantz

Survival during the Holocaust took on physical, social, and architectural dimensions, with approximately 50,000 Jews managing to evade capture in hiding within occupied Poland. Many of these survivors had to create and utilize diverse hiding places, driven by the urgent need for safety. They sought refuge in seemingly unlikely locations, including tree hollows, closets, cellars, and sewers, often staying there for extended periods ranging from hours to months. Architect, scholar, and artist Natalia Romik has been instrumental in identifying and studying numerous surviving hideouts that still stand today. The architectural remnants of these hidden spaces serve as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of their creators. In her exhibition titled "Hideouts: Architecture of Survival," Romik employed visually striking, sculptural forms to convey the delicate nature of these spaces and their profound historical significance.

This interdisciplinary book serves as a complement to Natalia Romik's unique work, offering a diverse range of voices that enrich the understanding of her contribution. It delves into the fundamental question of the role of art and architecture in relation to history, violence, and cultures of public commemoration.

The physical dimension of survival entailed the creation and utilization of hiding places that provided a temporary sanctuary from the dangers of the Holocaust. Survivors resorted to unconventional spaces, such as tree hollows, closets, cellars, and sewers, as they sought to evade detection and persecution. These locations were often cramped, uncomfortable, and fraught with risk, but they served as a lifeline for those who had no other options.

The social aspect of survival was equally crucial. In their quest for safety, survivors formed communities and networks, relying on each other for support and assistance. They shared resources, knowledge, and strategies for survival, creating a sense of solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity. These social connections played a vital role in their ability to endure and survive.

Architectural remnants of surviving hideouts serve as a tangible reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of those who sought to protect themselves and their families from the horrors of the Holocaust. These spaces reflect the creativity and resourcefulness of their makers, who adapted to the harsh conditions and limited resources available to them. The design and construction of these hideouts demonstrate a deep understanding of human behavior and the need for privacy and security in times of crisis.

Natalia Romik's exhibition "Hideouts: Architecture of Survival" showcases the architectural remnants of these hidden spaces, providing a visual and sensory experience that allows viewers to connect with the history and resilience of the survivors. Through her artistic lens, Romik highlights the delicate materiality and charged history of these spaces, emphasizing their significance as a testament to the human spirit's enduring power.

This interdisciplinary book contributes to the ongoing conversation about the Holocaust and its legacy. It offers a multiplicity of voices and perspectives, allowing readers to engage with the subject matter from various angles. The book raises important questions about the function of art and architecture in relation to history, violence, and cultures of public commemoration. It encourages readers to reflect on the lessons learned from the past and to consider how we can prevent such atrocities from happening in the future.

In conclusion, the physical, social, and architectural dimensions of survival during the Holocaust were critical in ensuring the survival of a significant number of Jews. The creation and utilization of hiding places, the formation of communities and networks, and the architectural remnants of surviving hideouts serve as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of those who faced unimaginable adversity. Natalia Romik's exhibition and this interdisciplinary book offer valuable insights into the history and significance of these hidden spaces, contributing to our understanding of the Holocaust and its enduring impact on human history.

Weight: 1202g
Dimension: 244 x 298 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783775755962