How do people become radicalised in a democratic society? What forms of violence can be found in a liberal constitutional state? How did National Socialism shape the author Siegfried Lenz (1926–2014) and the politician Helmut Schmidt (1918–2015) – and what lessons did they learn from it?
The exhibition ‘Ivory Tower and Barricade’ explored these and other questions: through sketchbooks, posters and graphic novels; with crocheted objects and paper sculptures; and featuring a giant pipe inhabited by a figure and a ‘Fundamental Rights’ memory game.
It also tells the story of the Hanseatic friendship between Lenz and Schmidt, as well as that of their wives, Lilo and Loki.
Discover the special relationship between literature and politics on the virtual tour.
Students on the Illustration course at the University of Applied Sciences spent two semesters researching and drawing on this theme. In their works, they examine concepts such as responsibility, participation, serenity and friendship – and ask what sustains democracy today and what threatens to undermine it.
The exhibition invites visitors to explore the special relationship between literature and politics.
The exhibition was on display at the State and University Library from 4 March to 10 May 2026.
A collaboration with the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences and the Hamburg State and University Library.
