Re-Connect: Art and Conflict in Brotherland

The book explores the transnational artistic creation in the GDR, including the cultural diplomacy, employment relationships, and taboo racism of migrant art production. It also highlights the works of foreign artists who studied at the GDR's art academies and the history of immigration and reunification from the perspective of East German migrants.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2023
Publisher: Hirmer Verlag

In our interconnected world, transnational artistic creation has become an integral part of our cultural landscape. However, when it comes to the GDR, the realm of migrant art production remains a relatively unexplored aspect. To shed light on this intriguing topic, a recent volume has delved into various aspects, including the cultural diplomacy of the GDR and its profound effects on society. It also explores the complex employment relationships of contract workers and the pervasive issue of taboo racism that existed within the GDR.

One notable aspect of the GDR's cultural diplomacy was its commitment to fostering artistic exchange with artists from socialist brother countries. These countries included Egypt, Ethiopia, Israel, and Uruguay, among others. The GDR's art academies welcomed these foreign artists and provided them with opportunities for education and professional development. However, the fate of these artists after their studies in the GDR remains a mystery. Many of them went on to achieve great success in their respective fields, but their contributions to GDR art retrospectives have often been overlooked.

The works of these forgotten artists are now gaining renewed attention and appreciation. Their artistic expressions offer a unique perspective on the GDR's history and culture, providing a glimpse into the lives and experiences of those who lived under the regime. At the same time, the history of immigration and the memory of reunification are being told from the perspective of East German migrants. These individuals have firsthand accounts of the challenges and struggles they faced during the transition period, and their stories contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the GDR's complex past.

The volume on migrant art production in the GDR is a valuable contribution to our understanding of the country's artistic landscape. It sheds light on the experiences of foreign artists who studied in the GDR and highlights the broader societal implications of cultural diplomacy and immigration. By exploring these topics in greater detail, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich and diverse history of the GDR and its impact on the world.

Weight: 1110g
Dimension: 199 x 255 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783777441139