The Saarland Museum’s Modern Gallery has canceled a planned exhibition by artist Candice Breitz due to her statements on the violence in Gaza, sparking a debate on freedom of expression and antisemitism in Germany.
A German museum has stirred controversy by canceling an exhibition by artist Candice Breitz due to her statements on the violence in Gaza. The Saarland Museum’s Modern Gallery decided to call off the show, citing the artist’s controversial remarks in the context of the conflict between Hamas and Israel. The cancellation has raised questions about freedom of expression and accusations of antisemitism in Germany.
The Cancelation and the Artist’s Response
The Saarland Museum’s decision to cancel Candice Breitz’s exhibition, scheduled for 2024, was reported by the Saarbrücker Zeitung. The museum’s foundation justified the cancelation, stating that it was in response to the artist’s statements regarding Hamas’ actions in Israel. Breitz, a Jewish artist based in Berlin, expressed her disappointment upon learning about the cancelation through the media. She criticized the decision as deeply antisemitic and argued that it reflected a climate in Germany that condemns Jewish perspectives without due process or civil conversation.
The Concept of “Philosemitic McCarthyism”
Breitz referred to American philosopher Susan Neiman’s concept of “philosemitic McCarthyism” to describe the current situation in Germany. This term, as theorized in a New York Review of Books article, characterizes the judgment and condemnation of Jewish positions without allowing for dialogue or fair treatment. Breitz believes that the decision to cancel her exhibition is an example of this phenomenon, which has been observed in recent cases involving artists, poets, musicians, and novelists in Germany.
Other Instances of Cancelations and Controversies
Breitz’s case is not an isolated incident. Several other German institutions have canceled exhibitions or events involving individuals who have expressed pro-Palestine statements. Palestinian artist Emily Jacir had a planned talk canceled, and a German photography biennial co-organized by artist Shahidul Alam was called off due to accusations of antisemitism. The Museum Folkwang in Essen also canceled a portion of an exhibition after the curator called for Palestinian liberation. Additionally, the selection committee for Documenta’s 2027 edition resigned, citing the situation in Israel and Palestine.
Debating Freedom of Expression and Art
The cancelation of Candice Breitz’s exhibition has sparked a broader debate about freedom of expression and art in Germany. Elke Buhr, editor of Monopol, noted that this was the first time a Jewish artist had been directly impacted by allegations of antisemitism following the recent conflict. Buhr argued that the debate has shifted away from the content of art and the principles of freedom of expression, with fear and condemnation driving the narrative. Breitz echoed this sentiment, stating that the current climate in Germany is characterized by fear and the zealous denunciation of individuals with inconvenient or uncomfortable viewpoints.
Conclusion:
The cancelation of Candice Breitz’s exhibition at the Saarland Museum’s Modern Gallery has ignited a contentious discussion about freedom of expression and accusations of antisemitism in Germany. The decision to call off the show due to the artist’s statements on the Gaza conflict has raised concerns about the stifling of diverse perspectives and the rush to judgment without proper evidence or dialogue. As the country grapples with its history and sensitivities surrounding the Holocaust, it is crucial to strike a balance between protecting freedom of expression and addressing legitimate concerns about antisemitism.
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