Attack on Visual Arts in Nazi Germany

Class Description

The racist ideologies of the Nazi state were directed not only at domestic and international politics, but also at the Visual Arts. After the somewhat liberal Berlin Olympics of 1936, the government no longer tolerated any paintings or other forms of creative expression that did not follow official rules. Artists were censored and banned from working or exhibiting. An art show „Degenerate Art“ displayed works in broken frames, crookedly nailed up, dimly lit, and with derogatory printed commentary. Today, the once banned art is highly praised around the world and still speaks to us. The class will view and discuss works of German Expressionism and other contemporary art movements. Hitler‘s passionate desire to collect paintings and sculptures will lead to a study of his concepts of cultural masterpieces. In Person: B2 Wednesdays, 1:00 - 2:30 Class Limit: 15