CATS! KATZEN!

Cats rule the internet – and our hearts too. Fluffy videos, cheeky memes, regal demeanour:

Cat content has long been a cult phenomenon. But what lies behind this millennia-old fascination with cats?

The exhibition CATS! traces the journey of what is arguably the most versatile animal in cultural history – from the revered Egyptian goddess Bastet to the helpful mouse-catcher, from the mysterious companion of witches to the domestic cuddler and majestic big cat. With a global selection of exhibits, contemporary art installations and original cat content from Hamburg households, the exhibition demonstrates just how contradictory and multifaceted the image of the cat is. It is regarded as cute and useful, sacred and wicked, strong and independent, a bringer of good luck and a symbol of misfortune all at once. From a transcultural perspective, KATZEN! explores the diversity of meanings projected onto cats, their political instrumentalisation and media presence, from art history to pop culture. It invites visitors to take a closer look at a familiar creature that, despite its ubiquity, remains an enigma.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

This book accompanies the exhibition CATS!, December 5, 2025 to November 29, 2026

Editors:Lara Selin Ertener, Lotte Warnsholdt, Johanna Wild

Binding: Softcover

Publisher: MARKK Hamburg

Pages:

Date: 2025

Language: German / English

ISBN: 978-3-944193-61-8