Background
Mumbai-based poet, cultural theorist, and curator Ranjit Hoskote recently resigned from the Finding Committee for Documenta 16, one of the world’s renowned art exhibitions held in Germany every five years. His departure on November 12 followed accusations of anti-Semitism and sympathy towards the BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) movement.
Allegations and Response
Hoskote faced criticism after his signature appeared on a BDS India petition from 2019, protesting a discussion hosted by the Consulate General of Israel in Mumbai on “Zionism and Hindutva.” The German daily Süddeutsche Zeitung accused him of endorsing content deemed explicitly anti-Semitic. Hoskote defended his stance, expressing regret for the accusations and emphasising the need for nuanced discussions.
BDS Movement and German Perspective
The BDS movement, aiming to exert political and economic pressure on Israel in solidarity with Palestinians, has faced criticism. In 2019, the German Parliament labeled the BDS movement against Israel as anti-Semitic. Hoskote’s association with this movement led to his denouncement by Documenta.
Hoskote’s Resignation Letter
In his resignation letter, Hoskote lamented the changing cultural landscape in Germany, emphasising the country’s shift towards far-right ideologies and divisive rhetoric. He criticized the instrumentalisation of the Shoah and Germany’s unconditional embrace of Israel, noting its potential consequences on the immigrant-origin population.
Impact on the Art World
Hoskote expressed concern over the potential impact on artistic freedom within the art world. He envisioned a future where criticism of Israel is labeled as anti-Semitic, limiting the diversity of perspectives in art exhibitions like Documenta.
Nuanced Discussion
Hoskote argued for a nuanced discussion of the issues at stake, rejecting an overly broad definition of anti-Semitism that conflates the Jewish people with the Israeli state. He highlighted his reasons for signing the 2019 petition, emphasising the problematic equivalence drawn between Herzl and Savarkar.
Conclusion
The resignation of Ranjit Hoskote from Documenta 16’s Finding Committee underscores the challenges posed by the intersection of art, politics, and accusations of anti-Semitism. The controversy raises questions about the balance between artistic freedom, political stances, and the potential impact on cultural exchange in prestigious international art exhibitions.
