Otto I as a world designer – grand opening of the youth art school in the cathedral

The Magdeburg Youth Art School’s art project ‘Otto I as a world designer’ celebrated its grand opening yesterday evening with a vernissage in Magdeburg Cathedral. On the occasion of the awarding of this year’s Emperor Otto Prize to two world-class artists, a very special co-operation between the Emperor Otto Cultural Foundation and the Youth Art School was born. For over a year, the pupils from the various art classes, as well as children from day-care centres and girls and boys who took part in a holiday academy, had been studying the historical personality of Otto the Great and bringing him into the present in all kinds of artistic ways. The art students worked together for months to create their own personal version of the future with their hands. They created their future world in a very individual way, in which they would like to live – free of war, in community, with appreciation, tolerance and respect. The resulting works range from drawings, graphics, photographs, sculptures and animated films to walk-in objects and will form an artistic backdrop when pianist Igor Levit and violinist Lisa Batiashvili are honoured with the city’s highest and most important award in the presence of hundreds of guests next Wednesday.

The visitors who accepted the invitation to the vernissage were impressed by the craftsmanship, creativity and artistic realisation of all the exhibits.

In her welcoming address, Regina-Dolores Stieler-Hinz, Mayor and Alderwoman of the city of Magdeburg, who is also Chairwoman of the Emperor Otto Cultural Foundation, emphasised the intention and message behind this year’s Emperor Otto Prize: “Art and culture are pillars of society. In times of crisis and war, they are able to provide comfort, hope and strength. Thanks to its universal language, art connects people all over the world and builds bridges.

The opening of the exhibition was accompanied by a small artistic programme. Cathedral cantor and organist Christian Otto played the organ and the Magdeburg Theatre Ballet School delighted the guests with a small sample of their skills.

The exhibition of the youth art school can be viewed until 1 August during the regular opening hours of the cathedral.