Shanghai as a Refuge: How Artist John Hans Less Survived the Shoah

As part of the 2026 Jewish Cultural Days, the Jewish Community of Heidelberg invites you to an evening dedicated to the life and work of the artist John Hans Less and the traces of his history leading up to the present.

Dr. Steven Less, author of “Dear Steven – something to remember me by,” will speak about his father and offer insights into his life and artistic work. In addition, Dr. Peter Blum, former Director of the City Archives, and Dr. Jens Hoppe, Director of the Central Archive for Research on the History of Jews in Germany, will shed light on the historical context and the significance of this story for the present day.

The evening will be opened by Dr. Louise Hecht, Director of the International Office at the Heidelberg University of Jewish Studies. She will then moderate the discussion and Q&A session, giving the audience the opportunity to explore the evening’s topics in greater depth together with the speakers.

Accompanying the event is a selection of posters from the Shanghai Refugees Museum’s exhibition, which explores the art and history of John Hans Less.

An evening about art and memory—and about how personal stories and historical experiences continue to resonate across generations.