Animally human: The new comic exhibition in the Grimm World Kassel!

Animally human: The new comic exhibition in the Grimm World Kassel!

In the Grimm world in Kassel, everything revolves around animal characters and their relationship to us humans. The current exhibition “I, the Animal” deals with the human-animal relationship and gives visitors the opportunity to view the world of comics from a unique perspective. Like that SWR reports, curator Dr. Alexander Braun provides interesting insights into anthropomorphized animals such as Donald Duck or Garfield, which reflect human weaknesses. This type of representation makes it easier to deal with our own shortcomings.

The ambivalent nature of Donald Duck is particularly highlighted. He is described as choleric, while the Bremen Town Musicians are presented in a less individualized manner in the fable tradition. This means that comics take up the fable tradition, but create a new approach to the topic through strong individual personalities. This makes it clear that comics not only entertain, but also deal with social issues.

The creators behind the exhibition

The design of this multifaceted exhibition is the work of a dedicated team. Under the leadership of managing director Jan Sauerwald and curator Dr. Alexander Braun, numerous participants have come together to make this artistic discussion possible. They also received support from graphic designers from Studio Terhedebrügge as well as from illustrative talents such as Nadine Redlich and Ralf Marczinczik, who shaped the visual concept. A big thank you goes to the sponsors, including documenta and the city of Kassel, who make such an event possible.

A look into art history

The theme of human-animal relationships has always been present in art. Even in ancient times, there are stories that tell of these connections, characterized by respect, exploitation and sometimes even violence. As the bpb notes, Pablo Picasso's famous quote: “We learned nothing” after a visit to the Lascaux caves reflects the ongoing interest in this complex topic. The folkloristic stories and myths, which can also be found in fables and fairy tales in Germany, illustrate the centuries-old examination of the relationship between humans and animals.

In modern times the topic takes a new turn. Contemporary literature and films often highlight the crossing of boundaries between humans and animals, while species extinction and climate change come increasingly into focus. There is also a critical element in the exhibition “I, the Animal” that encourages the viewer to think about their own relationships with animals and their meaning in the context of the ecological challenges of our time.

With this exhibition, the Grimm World not only wants to entertain, but also stimulate dialogue and encourage visitors to question their view of animals and their role concepts in comics and cultural history. A visit to the exhibition promises not only visual pleasure, but also a deep insight into the human-animal relationship and its relevance to our modern lives. If you would like to take a look at the exhibition, you should definitely not miss the opportunity!