VICE-VERSA-200 | Mosaik der Kulturen – Ein Kultur- und Kunstprojekt – 200 Jahre deutsch-brasilianische Partnerschaft

In the artist's words:

VICE–VERSA–200: German-Brazilian Cultural Project Makes a Stop in Neuss

The “Mosaic of Cultures” exhibition brings together art, history, and cultural exchange at Reuschenberg Castle

Neuss, July 2026. How can art build bridges between cultures? This is the question explored by the cultural and art project “VICE–VERSA–200 – Mosaic of Cultures, ” which will be on display in July 2026 at Reuschenberg Castle in Neuss. The occasion marks the 200th anniversary of German immigration to Brazil— a historic event whose cultural impact continues to connect the two countries to this day.

The project was developed by its initiators , Cibelle de Padua, Bärbel Starz, Maria Cristina Schulze-Hofer, and Simone Lisboa Leite. Together, they have created an interdisciplinary concept that not only documents history but also brings it to life through art, literature, music, dance, and performance.

“With VICE–VERSA–200, we want to show that migration is far more than a historical event. It is a story of encounters, mutual learning, and cultural diversity. Art opens up a space where people can engage in dialogue with one another and discover new perspectives.”

– The team of initiators behind VICE–VERSA–200

The project is hosted by the art initiative Wurzeln und Flügel e.V., led by its chairwoman Beate Düsterberg. Together with artist Thomas Schönauer, the art initiative is making Reuschenberg Castle available as an extraordinary exhibition venue, thereby creating an inspiring setting for German-Brazilian cultural exchange.

The exhibition is open on three event days and is accompanied by a diverse program. Visitors can look forward to guided tours, musical performances, dance and performance art, readings, book presentations, and workshops that offer different perspectives on migration, identity, and cultural diversity.A varied culinary program featuring typical German and Brazilian specialties will be on hand to satisfy visitors’ appetites.

Guests from the worlds of culture, politics, and diplomacy, as well as representatives of the participating partners, are expected to attend the opening reception on Sunday, July 5, 2026. The mid-exhibition event on July 8 and the closing event on July 12 will deepen the dialogue with additional artistic contributions and opportunities for interaction.

With “VICE–VERSA–200,” Neuss is sending a message of openness, cultural diversity, and international understanding. The project connects history with the present and highlights how closely Germany and Brazil have been linked for two centuries.

Dates

Opening
Sunday, July 5, 2026 | 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Mid-exhibition event
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 | 1:00–6:00 p.m.

Closing Reception
Sunday, July 12, 2026 | 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Venue

Kunstinitiative Wurzeln und Flügel e.V.
Reuschenberg Castle
Gerhard-Hoehme-Allee 1
41466 Neuss

Press contact: teamvv200@gmail.com