Haus der Kulturen der Welt (HKW) develops and stages a program that is unique in Europe, blending discourse, exhibitions, concerts and performances, research, education programs and publications. Its projects initiate reflection processes and devise new frames of reference. In its work, HKW understands history as a resource for alternate narratives.
Haus der Kulturen der Welt ( HKW ) homepage ( About Us )
A large architectural hub for the arts community floats the river ( looks like it. And apparently it’s called, “lighthouses of culture “:)) in the middle of greenery Tiergarten in West Berlin ( Tip : It is one of the nice walk route to enjoy view of Siegessäule – Victory Column through a park also ).
The spaceship alike concrete brutalism building with modernist taste stands out with a contrast between greens and concrete. This building is designed by American architect, architect Hugh Stubbins. It was part of the “interbau” a housing and area development project in West Berlin in 50s. HKW is apparently nicknamed as “ Pregnant Oyster “ by Berliner. In 2005 the outside of the building was featured as one of film location for the science fiction action film, “Eon Flux”.
I visited HKW first time by a friend of mine’s tip for “where to visit” : there was a forum held for Bauhaus design back then. It was Conference, lecture, music performance, and installation. Indeed they are not the only so-called museum but also for the cultural hub of local and international community to support contemporary arts, science, and architecture upon political and educational activity through constant frequent on conferences ( forums ) for social architecture, more of community developments. Forums which are held for example, Biennials such as the Berlin Documentary Forum. Since the opening of HKW in 1957, the concept of itself seems remain as and evolve courtesy up to now.
There’s always profound forums and events related to arts, architecture, social politics to pursue community development. Even to view the architecture design of the building as well as for the nice walk around, I highly recommend to visit with family, friends, or solo.
As of current, they are going to hold four days forum called, “The Sound“The Sound of Distance” of Distance “ ( as of 21st to 25th April 2021 ) : a new concepts upon sound, space, and architecture which is a full of sound installations and concerts ( no online streaming events ). Music producers such as Mouse on Mars and Oren Ambarch are performing.
HKW_Haus der Kulturen der Welt
Address: John-Foster-Dulles-Allee 10
10557 Berlin, Germany
Tel. +49 – (0)30 – 397 87 0
Round Pattern 