Hidden within a former military complex, Fluentum awaits. This isn’t just another art gallery. It’s a time capsule, a film reel flickering with history. Fluentum, opened in 2019 by entrepreneur Markus Hannebauer, breathes new life into this historic space. The building itself has a story to tell. Constructed between 1936 and 1938 as the Luftgaukommando III, it served as an administrative center for the German Reichsluftwaffe. During World War II, its role shifted towards strategic warfare. After the war, the very same building became the US military’s headquarters in West Berlin. The famous Berlin Airlift of 1948-49 was orchestrated from within these walls. Years later, after the US military’s departure in 1994, the complex transformed into a film set. It appeared in Hollywood blockbusters like “Valkyrie” and “Inglourious Basterds”. Now, Fluentum occupies the ornate main building, reimagined by architects Sauerbruch Hutton. Inside Fluentum, contemporary art takes center stage, particularly time-based media like film and video. The institution’s collection boasts works by over sixty artists, exploring diverse approaches to moving images. From documentaries to experimental films, the collection examines historical material within contemporary contexts. It questions how media shapes our understanding of stories. Fluentum’s biannual exhibitions, both group and solo, feature newly commissioned works, often receiving their first public viewing right here. Free guided tours, artist talks, screenings, and publications delve deeper into the art and its themes. Fluentum doesn’t just showcase art. It actively supports independent artists, particularly those based in Berlin. It funds productions and external exhibitions, fostering a vibrant artistic community. Fluentum invites us to engage with history in a dynamic way, recognizing its ongoing evolution. It’s a space where art, history, and media intertwine, creating a truly unique experience.
Genossenschaft PA58
From 1981 the Genossenschaft PA58 stands tall. It’s a self-managed house project. This is its story. This impressive building in