The Vicious Circle, an exhibition opening on January 21, 2025, in Soho, London, aims to confront antisemitism and educate about the historical impact of violence against Jews. Co-created by the University of Nottingham and the UK’s National Holocaust Museum, it features immersive video structures and artefacts promoting critical thinking on the recurrence of ideological delusions about Jews. Following London, it will tour Tallinn, Berlin, and the European Parliament.
A new international exhibition, The Vicious Circle, will open on January 21, 2025, in Soho, London, to mark Holocaust Memorial Day. Co-developed by historians from the University of Nottingham and the UK’s National Holocaust Museum, it features five storytelling video structures and confronts the misconceptions surrounding antisemitism by examining historical violence against Jews and its implications today. The exhibition will continue its tour to Tallinn, Berlin, and the European Parliament in Brussels following its London showing.
This exhibition uniquely explores the dangerous notion that violence against Jewish communities can lead to liberation. By inviting visitors to engage with the immersive installation, it draws parallels between historical acts of violence, notably the pogroms, and how these events resonate with contemporary ideologies. An explosive moment in the exhibition, where all video displays implode, serves to highlight the historical significance and the catastrophic consequences of such ideologies, underling that anti-Jewish racism has persisted beyond the Holocaust.
Alongside video materials, five artefacts exemplifying cross-cultural interactions among Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities will be displayed, prompting reflection on the broader societal implications of historical events. The exhibition encourages visitors to consider the ideologies behind these actions and to reflect critically on how society can break the cycle of violence and prejudice.
Marc Cave, Director of the National Holocaust Museum, emphasised the importance of confronting these ideologies, noting how conspiratorial thinking still exists and can incite violence, reiterating that the UK’s Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 theme is “For a Better Future.” The exhibition calls for dialogues that go beyond mere empathy, demanding an understanding of both victims and perpetrators.
This exhibition is dedicated to Holocaust education and challenges the misconceptions about antisemitism that persist today. By analysing historical events and their aftermath, it aims to foster critical thinking among visitors regarding the recurring themes of violence against Jews throughout history. As the world commemorates Holocaust Memorial Day, it is crucial to reflect on how ideological delusions continue to influence contemporary anti-Jewish sentiments and interactions.
The Vicious Circle exhibition serves as a critical platform addressing the deep historical roots and ongoing antisemitism faced by Jewish communities. By encouraging reflection on the actions of perpetrators as well as the consequences for victims, it aims to educate visitors about the cyclical nature of hatred and violence. As society grapples with challenging ideologies, fostering understanding and breaking these cycles is vital for a more tolerant future.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com