Dignified in the Wechterswinkel Monastery: Art between tradition and modernity

Dignified in the Wechterswinkel Monastery: Art between tradition and modernity

An exciting discussion on the topic of humanity and dignity is currently taking place in the former Wechterswinkel monastery. The new permanent exhibition entitled “Dignified – Impulses for Incarnation” was recently opened and attracts art enthusiasts from near and far. This impressive show, which presents over 100 works from the collection of curator and donor Jürgen Lenssen, combines traditional nativity art with contemporary works and offers a fresh look at the topic of human dignity.

In order to build a bridge between the past and the present, the exhibition asks questions that stimulate thought. It sheds light on what dignity means for those depicted, how those affected are doing and where their dignity may be violated. Such questions are particularly relevant at a time when media and political influences often negatively shape the perception of humanity.

A step into the depths

“Dignified” is not a traditional nativity scene exhibition. Rather, there is a dialogue between modern and traditional art. International artists such as Henry Moore, Gudrun Brüne and Thomas Lange encounter classic nativity figures and thus create an exciting field of tension. Jürgen Lenssen's tour, which will take place on July 6th and August 3rd at 2:30 p.m., took this successful combination to heart. Anyone interested can register by Saturday at 5 p.m. at kulturagentur@rhoen-grabfeld.de or by phone at (09773) 897262.

At the ceremonial opening, which took place over the Christmas period, the theme of the Incarnation was particularly highlighted by musical performances by the violoncellist Igmar Escher, director of the Suhl Music School. The cultural center of the Rhön-Grabfeld district also emphasizes the relevance of this exhibition with regard to the fragility of dignity, as District Administrator Thomas Habermann made clear.

Art as a mirror of society

Art plays a central role in reflecting social developments. It offers a deep insight into the collective consciousness of a community and can unfold transformative powers. The works presented in “Dignified” act not only as an exhibition, but also as a means of self-reflection and engagement with history and the present. This ability of art to initiate social dialogue and address grievances is impressively illustrated by the selection of artists in the Wechterswinkel exhibition.

The discussion, which included District Administrator Thomas Habermann, cultural manager Astrid Hedrich-Scherpf and regional artists, also highlighted how important the understanding of dignity is in today's society. We can all benefit from this discussion and perhaps take a step towards greater humanity and appreciation ourselves.

The new permanent exhibition in the Wechterswinkel Monastery invites you to embark on this journey and reflect on the essential questions surrounding human dignity. Whether in the form of reflection, discussion or simply by looking at the works of art, there is something here for everyone to delve into a deeper discussion.

For more information about the program and exhibition, visit the monastery's website: www.kloster-wechterswinkel-kultur.de.