Dwarf Worlds – A family exhibition with illustrations by Rien Poortvliet

Dwarves, although tiny and shy, enjoy great popularity and are always welcome around the globe when it comes to helping people in need. Originally native to Scandinavia, where they were first mentioned in myths, we encounter dwarves everywhere today: in front gardens, on television, in literature, and not least in museums. No wonder, since these little creatures are considered pleasantly friendly, peace-loving, and clever. The reputation of the cheeky goblins, who prefer to play mischief and simply won't give up, is not so positive. The level-headed mountain dwarves, on the other hand, prefer quiet seclusion and dig in the dark depths of mountains for precious stones. Only in emergencies do they offer shelter to fugitives seeking help, such as the beautiful Snow White.

All the forest gnomes, house gnomes, and hobbits that have populated our planet for centuries make one thing clear: the world of these small creatures is in reality immeasurably large.

Since October 9, 2016, the diversity of forest and domestic gnomes has been explored in the family exhibition "Dwarf Worlds" at Neuenbürg Castle. The presentation, curated by Cologne-based collector Christa Becker, explores, among other things, the fictional discovery of the dwarf island of "Lilliput" by the main character of Jonathan Swift's 1726 novel "Gulliver's Travels." Also world-famous are the domestic gnomes of the Dutchman Rien Poortvliet, whose "Big Book of Brownies" even became a bestseller in the USA. Around 40 original illustrations by the Dutchman, who died in 1995, were borrowed especially for the exhibition from the Rien Poortvliet Museum in Korendijk (Netherlands).

The exhibition explores the mythological origins of the dwarves through several stations and shows the different habitats of the mysterious dwarves.

Inspired by Anglo-Saxon mythology, elves and fairies are also considered dwarves. An installation dedicated to them invites visitors to search for them: Hidden in a sea of ​​flowers are more than 60 flying magical creatures, including Tinker Bell from Peter Pan, Abby Cadabby from Sesame Street, the cartoon stars Cosmo and Wanda – and even Cartman from South Park, disguised as the Tooth Fairy.

In addition to play, painting, and reading corners, dwarf costumes and princess dresses are available for young exhibition visitors in the brownie workshop. A "Dwarf Quiz" (for ages 3 and up) also makes the tour through the "Dwarf Worlds" an exciting experience. Sometimes you have to guess fairy tales in which dwarves play a role, sometimes you have to find a so-called "Dwarf Throne" or the Sandman. And if you look deep into the trusting, round eyes of Dobby, the house elf, you can even have a wish granted.