Shitstorm vs. Echelman: The founding of art

Marion Ackermann, director of the Preußischer Kulturbesitz, has expressed concerns over the increasing politicization of culture, particularly in light of recent developments involving U.S. President Donald Trump. Ackermann, who leads the foundation overseeing the world-renowned Museum Island in Berlin, stated that she finds it absurd that Trump is now targeting museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, which he views as a repository of American history. According to her, Trump's plan to place warning signs at the entrance of the museum to correct alleged misinformation reflects the growing power of political influence over cultural institutions. Ackermann noted that under Trump’s administration, the boundaries between politics and culture have become increasingly blurred. She remarked that she holds many things possible given the current leadership, yet she considers such actions absurd. The situation, she explained, highlights a broader societal debate over the role of art and culture in public life. In illiberal systems, she argued, the critical potential of art is often feared, manipulated, or even suppressed. In contrast, free societies may underestimate the importance of cultural expression, treating it merely as an ornamental aspect rather than a vital component of national identity and infrastructure. She emphasized that while economic competitiveness, defense, and infrastructure remain pressing priorities, cultural institutions should not be dismissed as mere embellishments. Instead, they play a crucial role in shaping resilient and reliable structures within society. Ackermann pointed out that this tension is not limited to the United States. Similar patterns can be observed in other regions, where ideological control over cultural narratives becomes a tool for reinforcing nationalist agendas. In Germany, Ackermann acknowledged that certain values, such as diversity, equality, colonial reckoning, and restitution, are under threat. She referenced the recent attack on the Christopher Street Day (CSD) celebration in Berlin, describing it as a painful reminder of how far some groups are willing to go to challenge established norms. She stressed that these values, which have been carefully developed over decades, must be protected by both the government and political parties. The issue of cultural manipulation is further illustrated by the actions of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Saxony-Anhalt. The party has criticized the Bauhaus movement, calling it an “irrational path of modernity,” and seeks to replace the state’s campaign promoting modern thinking with one advocating for German-centric perspectives. Ackermann found this disturbing, noting that the Bauhaus, one of the most influential cultural movements of the 20th century, is being attacked using language reminiscent of Nazi-era propaganda. This, she warned, is a dangerous trend that should not be normalized. If the AfD were to gain power in Saxony-Anhalt, Ackermann suggested that it could pose challenges for the Preußischer Kulturbesitz, which receives funding from both federal and state governments. However, she emphasized that the foundation operates under a federal mandate and collaborates with diverse political systems globally. Its mission, she clarified, is centered on strengthening civil society through cultural initiatives that foster long-term stability and resilience. Ultimately, Ackermann believes that cultural institutions must continue to serve as independent spaces for dialogue and reflection, even amid rising political pressures. Her comments underscore the ongoing struggle to preserve artistic freedom in an era where ideology increasingly encroaches upon the domain of culture.