Gallery Weekend Berlin took place from late April into early May, drawing large crowds despite ongoing concerns about the city's declining art-market relevance. The weekend kicked off with early previews on Wednesday, including Alex Heide's solo exhibition "the darkroom beams horizons" at the new space Klix, and continued with events at Sprüth Magers, the Between Bridges Foundation, and the hidden venue CHB Fine Arts, which featured works by Nairy Baghramian, Jack O'Brien, Sofia Duchovny, Ilya Lipkin, and Mania Godarzani-Bakhtiari. Friday, coinciding with May Day, saw gallery visits at Molitor and KOW, where Ketuta Alexi-Meskhishvili and Candice Breitz presented solo shows.
This article matters because it captures a pivotal moment for Berlin's art scene, which has been grappling with government censorship, funding cuts, and a reputation as a fading art hub. The vibrant turnout and diverse programming during Gallery Weekend suggest that the city still possesses significant underground energy and artistic community, challenging narratives of its decline. The report highlights how local institutions and artists are navigating a climate of fear while continuing to produce compelling work, making it a barometer for Berlin's resilience and evolving identity in the global art world.