BERLIN.- Ever wondered about the secret lives tucked away behind Berlin's bustling streets? The Museum Ephraim-Palais is inviting you on a captivating journey with its new exhibition, "Berlin Courtyards: Between Everyday Life, Work, and Encounters," running from July 18, 2025, to January 18, 2026. The public is invited to a special opening event on Thursday, July 17, from 6 to 9 PM.

From cozy residential nooks to bustling commercial hubs and serene artist retreats, Berlin's courtyards tell the vibrant story of a city constantly evolving. This exhibition delves into how these spaces have fostered social and cultural exchange since the 19th century, becoming living capsules of history and community. They reflect the complexities of urban life, showcasing how people shape their surroundings and creating a unique atmosphere that has long inspired artists.

"Berlin Courtyards" brings together nearly 100 striking photographs and graphics from the vast collection of the Stadtmuseum Berlin. Visitors will discover gems from legendary artists like Heinrich Zille, Hans Baluschek, and Manfred Hamm, alongside contemporary perspectives from photographers like André Kirchner and Günther Steffen.

Adding a fresh layer to the historical narrative are new artistic works by urban researchers Duygu Örs and Sinthujan Varatharajah, specially commissioned for the show. Their multi-sensory exploration of Wedding's backyards, using texts, photos, videos, and sound, offers an intimate look at these overlooked spaces.

What's more, the exhibition features a dynamic display of modern-day Berlin courtyards, crowdsourced through the Stadtmuseum Berlin's "Berlin now!" photo campaign. You'll see 40 framed photos on the walls, plus 50 smaller photo cards that visitors can rearrange, literally co-creating the exhibition experience. Due to overwhelming interest, the "Berlin now!" photo call has been extended until September 18, giving photography enthusiasts more time to submit their own unique views of Berlin's courtyards. Selected photos will even be rotated into the framed display in October!

Adding another exciting dimension, junior curators from the Refik-Veseli School in Kreuzberg, mentored by Yella Hoepfner, will share their own "courtyard stories" across five dedicated areas within the Museum Ephraim-Palais, including spaces within the "BerlinZEIT" permanent exhibition. Their personal narratives will engage in a dialogue with objects from the Stadtmuseum Berlin's collection, offering fresh, youthful insights.

Don't miss this chance to experience Berlin from a new perspective, delving into the hidden heart of its neighborhoods through the eyes of both historical and contemporary artists.