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Hitler. 'Icon of evil'
Photo: Visual Photos

Bezalel presents: Finding humor in Hitler

Student at prestigious art academy showcases images of Hitler drawn as different characters in attempt to break taboo surrounding 'icon of evil,' but so far has managed not to offend anyone; Holocaust Survivors Center: We do not find piece humorous

For most people, the last thing that comes to mind when thinking about Hitler is humor – but apparently art can overcome this boundary. A project by a Bezalel Academy student, currently being exhibited by the art school, makes use of Adolf Hitler as an icon that can be laughed at.

 

The student, Nir Avigad, explained his work as "an investigation of ideas and shapes of the icon, which makes use of humor as a means for the realization of an association or idea."

 

His project is made of 150 icons of the fuehrer, which were adapted into different characters and arranged on a large board. According to Avigad, most of the responses he has received have been positive, and only two critics were offended by the piece.

 

"I tried to refrain from offending anyone as much as possible," Avigad said. The piece is currently exhibited in an inner room, but according to the artist this choice was technical, and not for fear of offending the show's visitors.

 

"Just as Marilyn Monroe is an icon of beauty, the Dalai Lama is an icon of peace, and Mother Theresa is an icon of goodness and pity, Hitler is also an icon, whether we want to admit it or not. He is an icon of evil. But this icon has a taboo attached to it. We are prohibited from investigating it, prohibited from developing, prohibited from touching, prohibited from laughing.

 

"As a matter of fact, a barrenness that is almost all-consuming exists in the visual scope of anything remotely related to one of the most infamous people in human history," he said. "Of course the show does not aim to support Hitler or present his ideas and character in a positive light, but as someone who represents utter evil – from a visual perspective his image is seared on our conscious minds."

 

Not amused

Avigad explained the term 'icon' and why he believes it applies to Hitler. "An icon is a simple visual symbol intended to pass on a short and clear message without the use of words," he said. "Because of this, by simply manipulating an icon graphically, complex concepts and ideas can be summoned."

 

President of the Bezalel Academy of Arts Arnon Zuckerman said in response that the scool does not limit its students in any way, unless gross lack of taste is displayed.

 

"I don't think there is anything offensive here," he said. "I wouldn't have used the icon of Hitler, but Nir Avigad insisted on using it, apparently because he thought it would stir up attention. Until now, to be honest, his work has not captured the attention of the department."

 

The Center of Organizations of Holocaust Survivors in Israel (COHSI) stated in response that "even Nir Avigad writes in his explanation of the piece that his work may offend the onlooker. We leave it up to Nir's instructor to explain to him that art and design are not exempt from sentiment. We did not find the piece humorous at all."

 


פרסום ראשון: 07.21.08, 12:06
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