Logo of the Berlinischen Galerie Logo of the Berlinischen Galerie
Logo of the Berlinischen Galerie
Preview

Josef Kaiser

–

Building for the GDR

Street scene with several buildings: In the background, a tall rectangular hotel building with many uniform windows and a sign reading “Hotel Berolina” on the roof. In front of it is a wide, low building with large window fronts and a movie poster on the facade. On the right side of the image, a modern building with large glass fronts and signage on the roof is visible. People are walking across the plaza, and some cars are parked or driving in the background. The sky is clear and blue.

Postcard showing the Karl-Marx-Allee ensemble in 1964: Kino International, designed by Josef Kaiser with Heinz Aust, Hotel Berolina, designed by Josef Kaiser with Günter Kunert, and Restaurant Moskau, designed by Josef Kaiser with Horst Bauer. © Foto Schlegel, digitized by A. E. Witte

© photo: Foto Schlegel

Josef Kaiser (1910–1991) was a key figure in GDR architecture. From 1950 to 1970 he belonged to the collectives behind prestigious state buildings and modern  architectures, including Berlin’s Karl-Marx-Allee with the iconic Kino International. His designs expressed new social visions and met with international acclaim. Many are now listed as protected heritage. With the aid of drawings, photographs, films and models this exhibition presents his life and work, shedding light on political and aesthetic frictions. Contemporary artists offer fresh perspectives on his legacy as an integral part of Germany’s two state architectural history.

Events

27
August
Thursday
Opening

Opening: Josef Kaiser

As part of the exhibition “Josef Kaiser: Building for the GDR”

5
October
Monday
Guided Tour

Guided Tour in English: Josef Kaiser

Over 60 minutes we offer insights into the special exhibitions

12
October
Monday
Guided Tour

Talk in the exhibition: Josef Kaiser. Building for the GDR

Katharina Deppisch in conversation with artist Tracey Snelling

Supported by

Cooperation partners