Die Stifterin, der Nationalsozialismus und das Haus (The Donator, National Socialism, and the House)

Artists: Dani Gal, Rajkamal Kahlon, Susanne Kriemann, Fynn Ribbeck, Roee Rosen, Anja Salomonowitz, Clemens von Wedemeyer

Through the experimental exhibition Die Stifterin, der Nationalsozialismus und das Haus, which combines a historical section and a contemporary art exhibition, we invite the Oldenburg community to reflect on the Nazi past of the eponymous founder of the Edith-Russ-Haus for Media Art, Edith Ruß. The 2024–25 debate about changing the institution’s name to the Haus for Media Art Oldenburg was controversial and emotional, with little room for nuanced perspectives.

This discursive project aims to shed light on Russ’s personal history against the backdrop of new findings about her role in supporting National Socialism in Oldenburg, revealing the complexity of memory, legacy, and responsibility. The project comprises three parts. The first section is a historical exhibition, which primarily presents Russ’s documents and writings from the Nazi era. The display includes newspaper articles that she wrote between 1939 and 1945, including her short story Die sanfte Gewalt (Gentle Force). Bronze sculptures she donated to local institutions, as well as a painted portrait from her estate, are complemented by period-specific artworks and life stories relating to Edith Ruß. The second part presents contemporary artworks dealing with not just themes of National Socialism and authoritarianism but also the types of psychosocial conflicts and broader cultural moments that contributed to shaping Ruß’s life decisions.

The third part is a forum for lectures and presentations in the Haus’s main exhibition hall. Team members will also be in the “curatorial office” in the exhibition several days a week to facilitate individual dialogues throughout the exhibition period. At a time when many discussions and opinions are formed anonymously online and become emotionally charged, we aim to encourage direct, considered dialogue. This project invites reflection on and discussion of the history of the twentieth century, its influence on the present moment, and questions of personal responsibility. During this month of intense debate, we welcome contributions from diverse perspectives grounded in democratic values.

The project also consists of a series of event, ranging from screenings to lectures, which will take place throughout February. Please visit our website for more information.

In cooperation with: Karl Jaspers-Gesellschaft, Landesbibliothek Oldenburg, Landesmuseum für Kunst & Kultur Oldenburg, Oldenburgisches Staatstheater – Sparte 7, Präventionsrat Oldenburg, Stadtmuseum Oldenburg

Exhibition design: Katarina Sević

Scientific advisor: Dr. Joachim Tautz