Disreputable as inferior junk, kitsch has come to stand for the overly sentimental, cute and superfluous. But whether it's a garden gnome, a doctor's novel or porcelain tableware - there are kitschy things in every household that we love and cherish. Its peaceful harmlessness provides comfort and is even in demand in the form of wall decorations, home movies and souvenirs. Kitsch can do many things: it is sweet and funny, sometimes erotic and provocative and often even political. So what is behind this garish all-rounder? What do we perceive as kitsch? And why do we love and despise it at the same time? The exhibition gets to the bottom of the question of why kitsch both inspires and repels.

Time: Mar.-Oct. 09.00-18.00, Nov.-Feb. 10.00-16.00
Costs: free, plus admission to the open-air museum
Location: Mechernich-Kommern, LVR-Freilichtmuseum Kommern, Eickser Str. 1
Info-Tel.: 02443. 99800
E-Mail: kommern@lvr.de