When the spectator draws

Memory actions and dissemination of sensitive topics in the 21st century

Abstract

After World War II, testimonies and photographs have dominated the spread of knowledge about the Holocaust. The background for the article is the challenges of communicating these events in our time. Initially, the importance of maintaining the dissemination of the Holocaust was emphasized. The text retrieves examples from reception theory, and demands new ways to promote the spectator's active involvement. The historical background is explained. Through a series of workshops a phenomenological approach is being tested through drawing to commemorate victims of the Holocaust. Three examples from the workshops show different participants' approaches as well as possible challenges. Results of the workshops, observations and feedback are discussed along the way. The article will address the challenges of the project and possible sources of error you may encounter. Observations and feedback from participants in the workshops appear to confirm that a wrapped stone with a number worked redemptively for the majority from the position as passive viewer to active investigative characters.

Keywords: artistic development, drawing, holocaust, participant-based memory culture, dissemination methods, reception theory