Versus – the triumph of art

ERIC-ARNE SCHIECKE uses sandstone rich in metaphors to create the insignia of power and art. On display is a larger-than-life lute above a broken sword, complemented by a game of dice. The central element of medieval courtly culture is the Minne as an honorable and serving worship of women. The noble, altruistic knight’s ethics as a noble protector are in clear contrast to the cruel reality, which is characterized by intrigue, taking advantage, robbery, murder and war. The form of cultural confrontation depicted here is about the question of aspiration and reality, i.e. spirit and culture versus violence and war. The artist himself says: “The broken sword is a symbol of weariness with war, but also a call to take a stand. Versus is thus a symbol of constant conflict and the triumph of humanity over violent self-interest.”