In 2015, the Integrated Comprehensive School (IGS) in Neuwied acquired a new namesake: Johanna Loewenherz. Leading up to the celebrations marking the renaming, students had already been studying the namesake in class. Loewenherz lived in the immediate vicinity of the school for six years. This local connection was significant in selecting the name. Education, political and social participation, especially for women, were central demands for Loewenherz, who hailed from a prosperous Jewish family in Rheinbrohl and emphasized them in her political involvement within the Social Democratic Party at the time.

In the extracurricular workshop „Johanna Loewnherz – Strong Woman“ female students delved deeper into Loewenherz’s life. Artists Inna K., Hanna Murajda, and I devised a creative project where students were encouraged to reflect on this personality as well as themselves.

We discussed Loewenherz and her strengths but also connected them to our own strengths.

Based on this foundation, we created vibrant collages. How could we visually represent abstract concepts? Each student designed their own self-portrait. This served as a template for a mosaic. Tiles were smashed, colors sorted, mortar mixed, pieces assembled, and gaps grouted. The students were involved throughout the entire process.

The results were exhibited in the school foyer on Open Day.