On the Same Side

Photographs by Lydia Bergida and Marco Limberg

In their exhibition, photographers Lydia Bergida and Marco Limberg portray some of the last living "Righteous Among the Nations". These individuals, honoured by the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial, rescued Jews persecuted during the Nazi era. As contemporary witnesses, they represent humanity and civil courage.

The two photographers took pictures of 17 of the remaining "Righteous Among the Nations" in their personal surroundings. Some of the portraits include family members or personal mementos. The result is a photographic document meant to encourage reflection on today’s reality of life and to highlight the importance of courage and standing up for one’s convictions.

Lydia Bergida and Marco Limberg comment on their exhibition: "With our portraits and photographic narratives, we want to pay attention to the 'Righteous' and give them a voice in a time when hatred, antisemitism, wars, and the erosion of democracies have once again become part of everyday life in our society. We aim to convey their humanity, dignity, and values and to show what we can learn from these 'silent heroes' as role models for today.

This exhibition is our contribution to showing civil courage and taking responsibility for the here and now." The portraits and photographic narratives will be on view at the Carinthian State Museum from 8 August to 21 September 2025.

Vitae:
Lydia Bergida lives in Munich. In her photographic work she focuses on different aspects of social and everyday life. She emphasises the importance of humanity and humanitarian as well as democratic values. Her exhibitions have been shown at the Jewish Museum Munich, the Willy Brandt House in Berlin and the Munich Palace of Justice, among other places.

Marco Limberg lives in Berlin. He has spent over 30 years as a photographer dealing with social and political subjects, with a focus on people. As art director of the weekly Jüdische Allgemeine he showcases Jewish life. His works were featured in major German publications and have been exhibited at the German Parliament, the Jewish Museum Berlin and the Willy Brandt House in Berlin, among other places.