The Deutsche Bundesbank and the Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies (CES) at Harvard University are hosting a joint exhibition in Cambridge showcasing modern art from post-war Germany. Entitled “Parallel Beginnings: New German Expressionists & Ida Kerkovius,” the exhibition features abstract art by members of the “Quadriga” group – Karl Otto Götz, Heinz Kreutz and Bernard Schultze – as well as works by Ida Kerkovius. The works are taken from the art collections of the Bundesbank and the Guido Goldman Art Collection at CES and are being displayed together for the first time at the Center.

Artworks challenge us and prompt us to discuss our present and our society, Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel said at the opening of the exhibition in Cambridge on Tuesday. It’s about willingness to embrace new ideas, and also about tolerance. I believe that these are qualities that are needed more than ever in the workplace as well as in the political sphere in Germany.

CES is the most important academic institution devoted to the study of Europe in the US. Our mission is to deepen understanding of Europe and to promote relations across the Atlantic, said Professor Grzegorz Ekiert. Our gallery strives to bring arts and social sciences in dialogue. This exhibit offers new ways of thinking about Europe’s post-war history and politics and the power of artistic expression in bringing about changes in society. We are grateful to President Joachim Nagel and to the Deutsche Bundesbank for generously assisting us in this important mission.

The Bundesbank has been collecting art by contemporary German artists since it was established in 1957. Besides expressionist and modern abstract works, numerous examples of the avant-garde abstract movement of the time were added to the collection. The Bundesbank still maintains its commitment to art today. The aim is not just to promote art and culture – the works of art are also intended to open up new perspectives in the workplace and spark debate. 

Throughout his life, CES co-founder Guido Goldman built up an art collection in Cambridge that included a large number of works by German abstract artists. A political scientist by training, he was strongly committed to enhancing US-German relations and was responsible for founding the German Marshall Fund, which today seeks to promote transatlantic relations in politics, economy, and society. 

The exhibition will run until 31 May and will also be open to visitors from outside the university.