According to the Nationalgalerie's website, in conjunction with Das MoMA in Berlin, various cultural institutes and organizations in Berlin are participating in something called the "america season," funded by DaimlerChrysler. The focus will be on "the fine tradition and multifaceted relationships between Germany and the United States."
Ah! Sounds like an attempt at rebuilding Deutsch-Amerikanische Freundschaft. Under "Sponsors" on the website, DaimlerChrysler says,
Kunst ist eine kulturelle Brücke, um Gedanken und Ideen auszutauschen...Wir fördern die Kunst weltweit, weil sie die Menschen näher zusammenbringt. über alle Unterschiede hinweg.
["Art is a cultural bridge for exchanging thoughts and ideas...We support Art around the world because it brings people together. In spite of all differences."]
Will Germans--especially Berliners--be receptive? And do Americans know or care? After all the bad feeling at the beginning of the war, I can't see this making too much of a difference. Can it?
Of course, as the Spiegel notes, the MoMa also needs the "multi-million dollar" proceeds that lending the show to its only European venue will generate. So it's not all about spreading the love. It's hard not to see this whole thing in terms of postwar US cultural/propaganda activities in Germany, even if this is coming from non-governmental sources.
But!! To be fair, the Program looks pretty promising. I hope something good comes of this.
Posted by Heather at February 14, 2004 09:53 PM
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