Waiblingen, Germany – A new exhibition at the Galerie Stihl in Waiblingen is offering a pointed look at the relationship between Germany and Austria through the lens of political cartoons. Titled “Die lieben Nachbarn. Deutschland und Österreich” (“The Dear Neighbors. Germany and Austria”), the show, which opened on February 17th, 2026, features work that playfully – and sometimes critically – examines the cultural and historical ties between the two nations.
The exhibition draws its inspiration from and is presented in cooperation with, the Museum Wilhelm Busch, renowned for its collection of satirical drawings. The featured artwork, including “Großglockner” by Gerhard Haderer, utilizes caricature to dissect national stereotypes and shared experiences. Haderer’s piece, a striking visual centerpiece of the show, exemplifies the exhibition’s intent to provoke thought and discussion.
The choice of cartoons as the medium is particularly apt, given the rich tradition of political satire in both Germany and Austria. Cartoons possess a unique ability to distill complex issues into easily digestible – and often humorous – imagery. This approach allows the exhibition to tackle potentially sensitive topics with a degree of levity, encouraging viewers to engage with the subject matter without defensiveness.
The exhibition arrives at a moment when national identity and neighborly relations are frequently debated across Europe. While the relationship between Germany and Austria is generally considered amicable, historical complexities and cultural nuances continue to shape perceptions on both sides of the border. The show doesn’t shy away from these complexities, instead choosing to confront them head-on through artistic expression.
The broader context of German caricature, and its exploration of national identity, has been a subject of increasing interest in recent years. Artist Miguel Fernandez, through his “That’s so German…” series for DW social media, has been actively deconstructing German stereotypes for an international audience. Fernandez’s work, released weekly since its inception, tackles clichés ranging from punctuality to a fondness for garden gnomes, aiming to reveal the humor and absurdity inherent in national characteristics. His approach, as he describes it, involves “overdoing” or exaggerating traits to create a clear and understandable message for those unfamiliar with German culture.
Fernandez’s project highlights the challenges of representing a nation through caricature. He acknowledges the difficulty of knowing what resonates with audiences from different cultural backgrounds, emphasizing the need to rely on widely recognized symbols and traditions. The success of his series demonstrates a global appetite for self-deprecating humor and a willingness to engage with cultural stereotypes in a thoughtful way.
The Galerie Stihl exhibition, while distinct in its focus on the German-Austrian dynamic, shares a similar spirit of playful inquiry. By presenting a collection of caricatures, the show invites viewers to reflect on their own preconceptions and to consider the ways in which national identity is constructed and perceived. It’s a reminder that even the closest of neighbors can benefit from a little self-awareness and a healthy dose of humor.
The exhibition’s timing also coincides with a busy news cycle in the Ludwigsburg region, as reported by the Ludwigsburger Kreiszeitung. Recent headlines include discussions surrounding agricultural challenges in the face of climate change, political maneuvering ahead of upcoming elections, and local business developments. While seemingly disparate, these local stories underscore the broader context of societal shifts and evolving identities that the “Die lieben Nachbarn” exhibition subtly addresses.
The Kreiszeitung’s coverage also highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the AfD party and its positioning within the German political landscape, as well as local issues like brewery investments and school repairs. These stories, alongside the cultural offering at Galerie Stihl, paint a picture of a region grappling with both immediate concerns and broader questions of national identity and cultural exchange.
“Die lieben Nachbarn. Deutschland und Österreich” is more than just an art exhibition. it’s a cultural conversation starter. By utilizing the power of caricature, the show encourages viewers to examine the complex and often humorous relationship between Germany and Austria, and to reflect on the enduring power of national stereotypes. The exhibition runs at Galerie Stihl in Waiblingen, offering a unique perspective on two nations bound by history, culture, and a shared sense of neighborliness.
