Where Is the Magic?

Public space – so unassuming, so dilapidated, so unpredictable, so diverse and valuable – the spectrum is varied and gives rise to different interpretations depending on one’s perspective. The exhibition explores the value of public space, focusing on atmosphere and perception. To this end, the gallery space is transformed into an extension of public space: the leaves covering the floor rustle and fill the air with the scent of autumn, whilst Berlin-style benches invite visitors to linger, chat and observe. Even the characteristic light, which has defined the gallery’s ambience for more than 25 years, changes in interplay with the street lighting that comes on at dusk. In this way, the view framed by the shop window out onto the autumnal reality of Karl-Marx-Allee enters into a dialogue with the object-like, atmospheric installation within the warm gallery space.

In this way, what we call ‘magic’ becomes a vivid experience for visitors to the exhibition. Atmosphere, space and the design of public open spaces have been a central focus of FRL’s work over the last 15 years. The unexpected—arising from appropriation and use—is always part of this reality. It is clear that the term ‘magic’ has a different meaning for everyone, and FRL plays on the individual expectations of each visitor.

The exhibition is complemented by a catalogue featuring around 150 analogue photographs. These reflect and illustrate the observations that we, a group of 40 colleagues, have gathered together in public spaces over the past three years. For us, the exhibition is a snapshot, as we are by no means at the end of our journey, but rather ‘roughly halfway through’.

On 29 October 2026 at 7 pm, we will be opening the exhibition at the Architektur Galerie Berlin and look forward to sharing our observations and thoughts on public space with visitors. The exhibition will run until 5 December. On 3 December at 7 pm, we are also hosting a discussion with visiting professor Fanny Brandauer (University of Kassel), Professor Katja Benfer (Leibniz University Hannover) and Matthias Wermke (artist).