Art vs. Politics: Electoral Landscape Transformed by Animal Motifs in Rural Mecklenburg
In the lead-up to Germany’s federal elections, lampposts lining the streets of countless towns and cities are typically adorned with the faces of politicians. However, in the Mecklenburg village of Qualitz, a different sight greets passersby. Instead of electoral propaganda, artistic animal motifs grace the public space, offering a refreshing alternative to the usual political clutter.
"Our original idea was to reclaim the village space," explains Barbara Wetzel, the initiator of this unique project.
Back in 2016, prior to the state elections, Wetzel and members of the local Allerhand Association witnessed an unwelcome proliferation of flags bearing the insignia of the far-right National Democratic Party (NPD) throughout Mecklenburg’s rural areas. This sparked a determination to counter such displays with something more positive and community-oriented. Ever since, the cultural and arts association has been mounting exhibitions of artwork ahead of elections. "I believe we’ve barely missed a single election," Wetzel remarks.
Currently gracing the streets of Qualitz, approximately 30 kilometers southeast of Wismar, are close to 40 fabric banners adorned with an array of animal motifs. "Animals of the Village" is the theme of this art exhibition, which will remain on display until the end of March. Swallows, penguins, and frogs provide a welcome and whimsical diversion from the omnipresent election campaign imagery.
Astrid Peters, the mayor of the municipality of Baumgarten, where Qualitz is located, applauds the artistic initiative. "I think it’s wonderful, and the community is fully behind it," she says. While electoral advertising is not officially banned in the village, "there’s no denying that it’s not particularly attractive," Peters adds.
According to the Allerhand Association, around 20 individuals of all ages participated in the ironing, sewing, and printing of the banners. Wetzel emphasizes that the project also serves as a way to minimize annoyance at unwanted political propaganda and replace it with the joy of spotting a painted frog. "We highly recommend others to follow suit," she urges.
Wetzel’s initiative has not only beautified the village but also fostered a sense of community and pride. Residents of Qualitz are delighted to see their village transformed into an open-air art gallery, with many expressing their gratitude to the Allerhand Association for its creative efforts.
The project has also garnered attention beyond Qualitz. Other municipalities and organizations have reached out to inquire about the initiative, eager to learn from the experience and perhaps emulate it in their own communities.
The transformation of Qualitz’s electoral landscape from political battlefield to a vibrant tapestry of animal art sends a clear message: that there is a place for beauty and creativity in the often-polarized world of politics. By replacing partisan slogans with playful and universally appealing imagery, Qualitz has created an environment that fosters unity and celebrates the beauty of the natural world.
