Solemn vernissage: 50 years of Akanthus group in Pankow!

Solemn vernissage: 50 years of Akanthus group in Pankow!

On September 19, 2025, the “Akanthus group” will open a remarkable exhibition in the Pankow town hall on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. Painting and graphics are presented by a total of 18 artists. The exhibition period extends until March 20, 2026. The vernissage takes place the day before, on September 18, 2025, at 6 p.m. Cordelia Koch opened. Introductory words come from Jürgen Schmidt-Lingner, who has headed the group since 1978, while a string duo of the “BürgerSinfonie Berlin” ensures musical accompaniment. Admission to the exhibition is free and the opening times are from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on public holidays when it is closed.

The “Akanthus group” was founded in 1975 under the direction of Lothar Rechtacek in Berlin-Pankow and has been headed by Jürgen Schmidt-Lingner since 1978. In its origins, the group was active in various rooms, including the Klaustaler Platz and the cultural barrack. Its members consist of a versatile community of artists, which is made up of craft, art and science. Regular meetings and annual study trips promote exchange and creativity.

Diverse works of art and techniques

In the upcoming exhibition, the artists will use different painting techniques, including watercolor, gouache, pastel and ink on paper and cardboard. The thematic focus of the works shown is mainly due to landscapes and nature. The exhibiting artists include Walter Ast, Jeannette Bonefeld, Heike Eger, Clemens Franke, Petra Gronem-Schlosser and many others. The stylized acanthus leaf, which serves as the group of the group, symbolizes durability and resistance, and is a suitable motive for this anniversary exhibition.

The Berlin art scene has established itself as an important address in recent decades. Historically, it is rooted in political and social movements, which has resulted in a unique, avant-garde art culture that stands out from the commercialized art centers of New York and Impressionism in Paris. According to a 2022 Berlin Art Fair report, there was a 25% increase in international buyers, indicating growing interest in the city's art.

Tobility and community

Another factor that favored the development of the art scene in Berlin is the comparably low cost of living. Compared to New York, they are 40 % cheaper and 30 % cheaper than in London. This affordability enables artists to take risks and to fully devote themselves to their art. In addition, an inclusive and cooperative art community in Berlin, which is less geared towards maximizing profits, promotes creative projects. These aspects contribute to the special identity of Berlin in the international art world.

Nevertheless, Berlin stands at a turning point that raises concerns about the loss of its unique identity. Hans Ulrich Obrist, a well -known curator, emphasizes that it will be exciting to observe whether the city can preserve its special features while becoming more and more international. The diversity and character of the Berlin art scene continue to attract artists and collectors from all over the world, which underlines the role of the city in the global art world.