RESEARCH
Thingstätten the Relevance of the Past for the Present | Germany The Thingspiel was an open-air theatre movement in the early 1930s in Germany, invented to include large audiences in mythical-style immersive outdoor performances. During the Nazi regime, the movement gained some popularity and amphitheatre-like stages − the Thingstätte − were created to serve propaganda purposes. Around 60 were built, and many can still be found today in Germany, Poland and Russia. This project unites 23 international artists and scientists in a search for these littleknown historical sites using an interdisciplinary approach to conduct a holistic examination of the significance of the past to the present day. The research is published as a 256-page illustrated book (available in German and in English), as well as in a bilingual open-access database. The Jury recognised the originality of the theme of this project and the balance that was struck between aesthetics and reflection. The jury appreciated that the project shows how to approach this difficult heritage with a contemporary art project. ○ More information:
www.thingstaetten.info
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SPECIAL MENTIONS