In 2024, the German Exile Archive 1933-1945 of the German National Library celebrated its 75th anniversary.

These days, it is committed more than ever to its educational founding impulse to counteract anti-Semitism, racism, nationalism and baiting, and to promote democratic values. To mark the anniversary, the expanded permanent exhibition“Exile. Experience and Testimony“ reopened in Frankfurt am Main on 5 December 2024.

The “exile experience” offered by the exhibition is now even more accessible and immediate, thanks to new content, new perspectives and new approaches:

• The production of “The Passenger” by the theatre collective “Auricle” (London, Berlin) turns Ulrich Alexander Boschwitz’ novel with the same title into an immersive experience. A collage of sound, video and lighting allows the visitors to dive into the story of the Jewish businessman Otto Silbermann who is fleeing from the National Socialists, and to experience what it means to be on the run.
• The interactive installation “What’s left” by the German-Israeli artist duo Yael Reuveny and Clemens Walter addresses present-day exile experiences. A composition of images and sounds reflects the memories of people who suffered oppression and persecution in their home countries.
• Short films are shown to offer explanations and give an insight into the lives of the people bestowing estates to the Exile Archive. The affected individuals speak about the ways in which exile has shaped their family histories. Contemporary issues are raised to encourage the visitors to think critically and share their own views.

More information can be found here.