Rose in Wartime – What Remains

Rose in Wartime – What Remains reflects on how war can alter not only political realities, but also the values through which societies understand themselves. For decades, particularly in Germany and Japan, pacifism shaped attitudes toward military power. Today, deterrence and rearmament have returned to political debate.

The work does not seek to judge war itself. Instead, it asks what happens to values once regarded as self-evident when societies are confronted with conflict and insecurity.

The rose—associated with beauty, love, and fragility—appears darkened and soiled, its petals scorched and marked by traces of blood. Placed in a shallow box like an offering, it remains recognisable despite its wounds. What remains of a rose in wartime?