The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 was an epoch-defining event that marked the beginning of a unique period in time. Despite only lasting a few years, this phase became an indelible part of Berlin’s DNA. The city in its present form would be unthinkable without it.

In 1989 many buildings in the district of Mitte were empty. Entire blocks had been abandoned. There was confusion surrounding the status and ownership of these properties, leaving a vacuum which was eagerly utilised by artists and cultural producers. Young creatives from around the world flocked to Berlin to explore new ways of living and take part in the rare opportunities now available in this »temporary autonomous zone«. The resulting artistic and cultural projects were soon making waves far beyond the city limits. Galleries and event spaces were established, attracting streams of tourists. Within the artistic process itself, new trends emerged that continue to exert a powerful influence on the international art and music scene to this day.

The photographers Ben de Biel, Hendrik Rauch, Philipp von Recklinghausen, Stefan Schilling, Hilmar Schmundt, Andreas Trogisch and Rolf Zöllner were part of this process. Their work offers a vivid insight into the dynamics of change during an unprecedented era of release, resistance and reorganisation, an era that shaped Berlin into what it is now – a creative melting pot with global resonance.

The exhibition in the Urban Spree Gallery, Berlin, was curated by Anke Fesel and Henner Merle.

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