Open-Air Exhibition
Kulturprojekte Berlin and Permanent Conference of Nazi Memorials in Berlin
Creative Production and exhibition space
Bernadette Schendina
Parier Platz, Brandenburger Tor Berlin
On May 8, 2025, Berlin commemorated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and Europe’s liberation from National Socialism. To mark this occasion, the city declared a unique holiday, accompanied by a multi-day event-series across the entire city. At the heart of it was the open-air exhibition “…endless peace?,” located on Pariser Platz in front of the Brandenburg Gate. Open 24/7 and free of charge, it presented a historically accurate narrative across 12 chapters about Europe’s liberation—from Germany’s complete military defeat, through the surrender of the Wehrmacht, to the subsequent occupation of the entire country. The exhibition was developed by the Standing Conference of Nazi Memorials in Berlin and is being presented by Kulturprojekte Berlin. For it’s physical realization, the architecture from the previous exhibition-project within “Mauerfall35” was reused. To give these existing elements a new purpose, we painted the wooden beams in a monochrome blue, printed new graphics onto the plywood panels, and organized the chapters into different modular units. In line with the calm and elegant visual identity of the exhibition, we deliberately designed the space to be clear and tranquil. The modules were diagonally fanned, creating an open and inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to enter and engage at any point. The concept was further enhanced by mirrored seating boxes that invited reflection, as well as a centrally located, compact information kiosk—also constructed from the modular system—that provided easy access to additional content. A great opportunity to once again bring history into public space in a manner that is accessible and engaging for everyone.