Painted Democracy

Germany celebrates 75 years of the Basic Law

To mark the 75th anniversary, the Museum Koenig Bonn is showing the exhibition "Painted Democracy - 75 Years of the Basic Law in Paintings by Markus Lüpertz." From 23 May to 11 August 2024, the 16 works by the internationally renowned Düsseldorf artist offer an unusual view of the fundamental rights articles of our constitution. On 1 September 1948, the Parliamentary Council began work on the Basic Law in the Museum Koenig Bonn, which was adopted on 23 May 1949 to establish the Federal Republic of Germany.

The artist sees the Basic Law as an "idyll", as a formulation of an ideal state from which reality repeatedly deviates, but which does not call the Basic Law into question, but rather repeatedly puts reality in its place. The significance of the individual articles of the Basic Law, such as Article 1 "Human dignity is inviolable", is emphasised by his characteristically gestural style of painting, which is characterised by impasto clarity and energetic gestures in his works.

Lüpertz's works offer a space for reflection on the fundamental values that characterise a liberal society. As democratic structures are under pressure, particularly in Germany, and authoritarian tendencies are on the rise, Lüpertz's art reminds us of the importance of independence, pluralism and freedom of opinion.

"The work on the Basic Law began here at Museum Koenig Bonn. We are delighted that we are now able to show the great artist Markus Lüpertz's examination of the most important laws," emphasises Prof. Dr Bernhard Misof, Director General of the LIB and Museum Koenig Bonn. "75 years ago, this museum became the birthplace of German democracy and today serves as a forum for discussions about our relationship with nature and the contribution of science to social change. We are looking forward to hearing the opinions of visitors to the exhibition as they engage with the paintings and thus with the fundamental legal principles of our society."

Further documents & links

The key date-ARD Chronicle: Adoption of the Basic Law

WestArt contribution (18.5.24): Painted Democracy by Markus Lüpertz

Special guided tours

A co-operation of:

• Foundation for Art & Culture
• Museum Koenig Bonn
• General-Anzeiger

With the kind support of:

• Alexander Koenig Society e.V.
• Flick Gocke Schaumburg
• BN Legal
• Grothues Tax Consultancy