Dada in Cologne and Hanover

The discussion of Cologne consists of four sections that explore different elements and aspects of the movement’s expression in this city. The first two sections address the origins of Cologne Dada from the post-war anger and strife that formed the movement’s backdrop to the precise events that led to its birth. The third section explores the aesthetics of Cologne Dada while the last examines the fiery relationship between Dadaist politics and aesthetics that culminated with Max Ernst’s departure for Paris in 1922. A section on Hanover addresses the political and social nature of the city that gave rise to a particular blend of Expressionist and Dadaist aesthetics dominated by Kurt Schwitters. Hanover supported a politically progressive climate that nurtured the development of Dada, and an avant-garde society of publishers, art collectors, art exhibitors, and theatre patrons. This volume examines lesser known aspects of Schwitter’s work, such as his Merz-Evenings and the utopian Merzbau project.