Ruangrupa apologizes for antisemitic artwork at Documenta 15, leading to removal and controversy
The curatorial collective Ruangrupa, responsible for Documenta 15, expressed regret for showcasing an antisemitic caricature in their exhibition. The controversial 2002 artwork, People’s Justice by Taring Padi, featured a soldier with a pig's head alongside a Jewish character adorned with sidelocks and SS symbols. Following significant backlash, the piece was taken down just days after the festival commenced. Ruangrupa admitted their oversight in failing to recognize the offensive elements that perpetuated antisemitic stereotypes and endorsed its removal. Earlier in January, the German Alliance Against Anti-Semitism Kassel criticized the curators for including anti-Israeli activists, prompting discussions on antisemitism, one of which was canceled after backlash from Josef Schuster. The apology from Ruangrupa addressed the distress caused and pledged to enhance education on antisemitism.
Key facts
- Ruangrupa apologized for including an antisemitic caricature in Documenta 15.
- The artwork was People’s Justice, a 2002 banner by Indonesian collective Taring Padi.
- Imagery included a soldier with a pig’s face wearing a Star of David scarf and a helmet inscribed 'Mossad'.
- German magazine Monopol identified a caricature of a Jew with sidelocks and SS symbols.
- The work was covered up then removed days after the festival opened.
- In January, the German Alliance Against Anti-Semitism Kassel accused Ruangrupa of featuring anti-Israeli activists.
- Documenta organized We need to talk! events with speakers including Eyal Weizman and Hito Steyerl.
- Josef Schuster criticized one event as showing anti-Semitic tendencies, leading to its cancellation.
Entities
Artists
- Ruangrupa
- Taring Padi
- Eyal Weizman
- Hito Steyerl
- ruangrupa
Institutions
- Documenta 15
- Monopol
- Alliance Against Anti-Semitism Kassel
- Forensic Architecture
- Central Council of Jews in Germany
- Anne Frank educational institution
- Israeli embassy in Berlin
- South Australian Art Festival
Locations
- Kassel
- Germany
- Indonesia
- Berlin
- Adelaide
- Australia