Since the beginnings of the “Rettet Europa” (“Save Europe”) exhibitions by the FREIE KLASSE München in 1993, the continent had changed in many ways. The challenges Europe had faced were never static but constantly evolving. The exhibition “TransEuropa – RETTET EUROPA IV”therefore not only represented a continuation of artistic reflection on the state of Europe but also served as a call for unity and change in a time of upheaval.

In recent years, Europe had struggled with a multitude of challenges, ranging from political unrest and economic turbulence to social tensions. Yet despite these difficulties, there was a common denominator that united everyone: the shared identity as Europeans. “TransEuropa” was a call to preserve and strengthen this identity by facing challenges together and seeking solutions that benefited all.

The artworks in this exhibition offered a multifaceted perspective on Europe and its future. They invited viewers to think beyond borders—both geographical and cultural—and to work together for a better future. From political statements and social commentaries to personal stories, each piece contributed to creating a complex image of Europe in 2024 while simultaneously calling for unity and transformation.

“TransEuropa” was more than just an exhibition—it was a moment of reflection, inspiration, and hope. It was an opportunity to come together and collectively work toward a better future for Europe. May this exhibition help remind us of what unites us so that we emerge from this time of change stronger and more united.

P.S.
– On June 9, 2024, this exhibition space at the Temple Museum also served as an official polling station for the European elections in Etsdorf.
– Since 2010, the Temple Museum had been showcasing exhibitions on the theme of Europe. With the Glyptothek Etsdorf (construction beginning in autumn 2024), a green “Europe Temple” was being created as a complementary addition within sight of the European Route E50.

A table tennis table divided by a metal fence, through its visual form, evokes various thoughts on complex questions of communication, action, interaction, populism, radicalization, and democracy in today’s Europe and the world.

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, many of us believed that borders would play a much smaller role in the future. However, both in Europe and globally, we are witnessing the opposite. Populist and radical behaviours are putting pressure on our democracy, European political cooperation, and cultural coexistence, risking their collapse.

Playing and daring to experiment require personal commitment from the curious player, but also the responsibility of every individual citizen in public life. The metal fence before us, the mental barrier within us—we continue to communicate through ping-pong. Just do it!

Supported by Büro Wilhelm and TEMPEL MUSEUM Etsdorf