Bauhaus Dessau Defies Far-Right Attacks Amid 100th Anniversary Celebrations

Bauhaus Dessau Celebrates Centennial Amid Far-Right Attacks DESSAU, GERMANY - The Bauhaus Dessau, a pioneering art and design school, marked its 100th anniversary in 2025 amidst controversy over far-right attacks on the institution. Despite initial warnings from Germany's right-wing populist party Alternative for Germany (AfD), the centennial celebrations, dubbed "To the Core. Bauhaus Dessau 100," went ahead as planned. The event was met with resistance from extremist groups, who have long criticized the Bauhaus movement for promoting "globalist uniformity" and "cosmopolitan" art. In October 2024, the AfD submitted a motion to Saxony-Anhalt's state parliament demanding a critical reassessment of the artistic movement. However, the motion was ultimately quashed by lawmakers. "We were prepared for this kind of reaction," said Barbara Steiner, director of the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation. "The Bauhaus has always been about pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms. We're proud to be part of a legacy that continues to inspire artists and designers around the world." The Bauhaus movement, which originated in Weimar in 1919 before relocating to Dessau in 1925, is widely regarded as one of the most influential art and design movements of the 20th century. Its emphasis on functionalism, simplicity, and experimentation has had a lasting impact on modern architecture, product design, and visual arts. The far-right attacks on the Bauhaus are not an isolated incident. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of extremist groups targeting cultural institutions and artistic movements deemed "unpatriotic" or "globalist." This phenomenon is not unique to Germany, with similar incidents reported in countries such as France, Italy, and the United States. "It's a worrying trend that reflects a broader backlash against diversity and inclusivity," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a cultural critic based in Berlin. "The Bauhaus represents a commitment to artistic freedom and experimentation, values that are essential to any democratic society." As the centennial celebrations continue, organizers are working to ensure that the event remains inclusive and accessible to all. The Bauhaus Dessau Foundation has also launched a series of initiatives aimed at promoting cultural exchange and understanding between different communities. The centennial celebrations will run until October 2025, with a range of exhibitions, performances, and events planned throughout the year. Despite the initial controversy, the event is expected to draw visitors from around the world, cementing the Bauhaus's status as a global cultural icon. In related news, the German government has announced plans to establish a new national museum dedicated to the Bauhaus movement. The museum will be located in Dessau and will serve as a permanent tribute to the institution's legacy. As the Bauhaus celebrates its centennial, it remains an important reminder of the power of art and design to shape our understanding of the world and ourselves. *Reporting by Dw.*