Berlin, a city always in transformation, captivated Scottish-German photographer Jojo Caitlin when she moved there in 2020 amidst pandemic closures. “Berlin is over. You missed the best years,” was the sentiment she frequently encountered. Yet through the years, as the city revived its vibrant music scene and spirit, she also observed its troubling shifts—rising costs, censorship, and a sense of disillusionment among its residents.
Dissatisfied with the constraints of mainstream artistic and political institutions, Jojo finds inspiration in grassroots movements such as The Palace Collective. Nestled beneath the railway at Jannowitzbrücke in a soon-to-be-demolished office building, this non-profit nurtures creative collaboration and community development. Among its initiatives is an annual art residency at a 16th-century Polish palace, welcoming around 200 international creatives for two weeks of innovation and play.
Last autumn’s residency opened Jojo’s eyes to boundless creativity. Each day began with her wandering the palace, musical echoes guiding her through performance rehearsals and workshops. “It was pure magic,” she reflects on the spontaneity that marked their experience — a vibrant universe where collaboration blossomed effortlessly.
Her passion for film photography adds another layer to her artistry. Capturing unpredictable moments, she finds beauty in the mysterious interplay of light and film. Among her cherished photographs is a lively scene of “dishwasher karaoke,” underscoring the collective spirit at The Palace, and an ethereal dancefloor image lit by soft morning light.
Transitioning from a climate justice career to photography allowed Jojo to communicate her observations of the world creatively. Inspired by Donna Haraway’s philosophy of being responsive to distressing realities, she sees photography not only as art but also as a grounding practice amid chaos.
After her residency, Jojo remains active in The Palace Collective, helping organise events that unite music and community support. Though her view of the TV Tower is now obstructed by towering glass structures, her faith in DIY initiatives fuels her hope. “I really believe in the power of DIY spaces for collective healing,” she asserts, recognising Berlin’s unique ability to foster such environments even amidst its challenges.
Scottish-German photographer Jojo Caitlin reflects on her journey in Berlin’s evolving art scene, embracing community initiatives like The Palace Collective. Amid concerns of rising censorship and living costs, she finds inspiration and a sense of belonging in grassroots movements, underscoring the transformative power of creativity as she navigates through unpredictable times.
The narrative of Jojo Caitlin illustrates the dynamic and often turbulent nature of Berlin’s artistic landscape. Through grassroots initiatives like The Palace Collective, artists find refuge from the city’s chaos, fostering collaboration and community. Jojo’s journey highlights the transformative power of creativity and the importance of preserving spaces that uplift collective spirit amidst external challenges.
Original Source: www.dazeddigital.com
