Since 2024, our interactive traveling exhibition “Challenging Democracy” has been on tour! It was launched in April 2024 at the German Bundestag in Berlin on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of both the Bundestag and the Basic Law. Since then, it has continued on to Bonn, Leipzig, Rostock, and other cities.
Helmut Schmidt Today
“Challenging Democracy” was developed as a project for the Federal Chancellor Helmut Schmidt Foundation. It explores the life of Helmut Schmidt, his impact on democracy, and the broader significance of democracy itself. In a creative collaboration with the curators, we found a way to make democracy tangible and accessible through interactive elements.
Helmut Schmidt lived through nearly a whole century: from 1918 to 2015 – and he shaped many of those years politically, not only in Hamburg or Germany. With this exhibition, we wanted to give him a voice and highlight numerous intersections, which we called “Schmidtmengen” (Schmidt-overlaps), with current debates. “Challenging Democracy” connects a historical figure with present-day challenges, aiming to foster awareness and understanding for today’s and future generations.
Think and Feel
To make the engagement with the topics as simple and inclusive as possible, we developed a guiding principle for all interactive elements:
Each exhibit station offers two different approaches to two different themes, each facilitated through interaction. In the exhibition — just like in real life — there is always an intellectual and an emotional pathway.
The “Think!” side invites discussion and reflection. It presents information, encourages debate, and welcomes even disagreement.
The “Feel!” side offers a chance to engage with democratic themes creatively, without requiring prior knowledge. Here, democracy is meant to be experienced emotionally.
Interaction with Pressing Questions
The exhibition is divided not only by colors but also by central questions. The yellow area presents information about Helmut Schmidt as a person, including private aspects. The green section focuses on historical themes, while the blue area is dedicated to interaction.
At four interactive stations, visitors can explore the following questions:
The first question, for example, is based on the message: “Democracy protects you.” We’ve brought this strong statement to life in the form of a “Democratic Hug.” The “Demo Hug” is a creature with fluffy arms and a kind expression that invites visitors to throw themselves into the arms of democracy. It underlines that democracy means protection and safety and how all of us can benefit from it. It’s essential to care for it and defend it, especially when it feels under threat. The “Demo Hug” brings this message to life in a powerful visual way.
In addition to various graphics, installations, participatory stations, and challenges, the exhibition also offers deep insights into historical events. These have been prepared by the foundation’s historians and are always linked to current events, drawing a connection from Helmut Schmidt’s time to today and thus continuously emphasizing relevance.
You can find more information here.
