Resist Together!
Resistance to fascism is more urgent and relevant than ever, especially in times like these. The collaborative and intergenerational research project “The Arts of Resistance” seeks to explore art-based approaches to countering such tendencies at the intersection of international youth work and contemporary research.
Building on Umberto Eco’s text “Ur-Fascism,” the project examines questions surrounding Europe as a peace project, European identity, and resistance to fascism. With the support of internationally renowned artists, young people develop artworks that serve as expressions of resistance against fascism. The aim is to empower all participants through this process to approach the future with imagination and to recognize that a pan-European future free from fascism is possible through curiosity, critical analysis, and a spirit of inquiry.
Resistance requires not only critical thinking but also new aesthetic approaches. The book documenting this multi-year research project therefore understands itself as a designed act of resistance. In its concept and design, existing codes associated with the theme of “resistance” are consciously reinterpreted and further developed. The visual language is based on three central pillars: movement, symbolism, and color.
1. Movement
From the very beginning, it was clear that every element had to be in literal motion: from the fluid layout grid to the accompanying video for the book presentation. The central design element is also in motion: the bar—originally associated with censorship—has been deliberately reinterpreted and used as a positive highlighting device. In addition, the poster is conceived as an independent medium of resistance and staged as a movable element that wraps around the book.
From the very beginning, it was clear that every element had to be in literal motion: from the fluid layout grid to the accompanying video for the book presentation. The central design element is also in motion: the bar—originally associated with censorship—has been deliberately reinterpreted and used as a positive highlighting device. In addition, the poster is conceived as an independent medium of resistance and staged as a movable element that wraps around the book.
2. Symbolism
We draw on familiar symbols—such as the raised fist or a waving flag—and expand the “language of resistance” with more unusual, unseen, and atypical elements. Through a contemporary mode of representation, we add additional layers to this established visual language.
We draw on familiar symbols—such as the raised fist or a waving flag—and expand the “language of resistance” with more unusual, unseen, and atypical elements. Through a contemporary mode of representation, we add additional layers to this established visual language.
3. Color
Alongside red, the color of resistance, we introduce a vibrant green. This combination is not only unusual in this context; it also emphasizes the positive image of resistance and the hopeful future portrayed in this publication.
Alongside red, the color of resistance, we introduce a vibrant green. This combination is not only unusual in this context; it also emphasizes the positive image of resistance and the hopeful future portrayed in this publication.
IMPACT
Best Practice
The project has been recognized by the European Commission as a best-practice example and as a Creative Europe Best Practice project from Austria, underscoring its impact and exemplary approach to art-based political education.
The project has been recognized by the European Commission as a best-practice example and as a Creative Europe Best Practice project from Austria, underscoring its impact and exemplary approach to art-based political education.
4,500
Through workshops, exhibitions, and public interventions, the project has reached more than 4,500 people.
Through workshops, exhibitions, and public interventions, the project has reached more than 4,500 people.
More Information
- Client
Ruth Anderwald + Leonhard Grond, Association HASENHERZ
- Project Partners
University of Applied Arts Vienna, Museum of Contemporary Art Zagreb, Braunschweig University of Art
- Services
Artwork, Editorial Design, Illustration, Motion Design
- Published by
- Photography (Event)
- Photography (Portfolio)
- Printed by