Original Source: airmail.news
Alicja Kwade, an artist from Katowice, Poland, always felt a calling to create. Growing up shy and introverted, she found solace in her art. After her family moved to Hannover from behind the Iron Curtain, she flourished in a city rich with creativity. Kwade eventually settled in Berlin, where she honed her style, melding materials like wood, glass, and copper to delve into intricate themes like time and space. Today, her artwork resonates in major museums across the globe, reflecting her fascination with science and the extraordinary. In her Berlin guide, Kwade shares her favorite local spots that blend culture, cuisine, and inspiration.
Victoria Bar is a charm on Potsdamer Straße, serving delightful cocktails in an ambiance reminiscent of bygone eras. Once a glittering hub in the Roaring Twenties, the street now embodies Berlin’s eclectic spirit. A dive into this bar reveals an array of intriguing personalities and an infectious energy that carries into the wee hours of the morning.
Overlooking the Spree River, Grill Royal boasts a lively setting perfect for steak lovers. With a rich wine selection, it’s a top pick for fine dining, offering a noteworthy view of Berlin’s architectural marvels, like the Museum Island and the iconic TV Tower. Enjoy an evening here for culinary delights shared amongst friends and family.
For a taste of Japan right in Berlin, Ishin stands out as one of the oldest dining establishments, launching in 1997. It’s known for speedy service that is a rarity in Berlin’s dining scenes. Although it has a bustling, canteen-like atmosphere, you’re guaranteed to savor exceptionally tasty dishes with swift service, making each visit a gratifying experience.
The Museum für Naturkunde, or Natural History Museum, is a treasure trove of over 30 million specimens, featuring the awe-inspiring Brachiosaurus skeleton. Kwade enjoys spending hours exploring its vast corridors filled with unique curiosities and models, imparting a sense of wonder and intrigue with every step as you unearth the past and unexpected.
A modern architectural gem, the Neue Nationalgalerie focuses on 20th-century art with designs by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Celebrated for its open-plan layout and glass structure, the museum embraces a minimalist ideology. Kwade holds this space dear, as she had the opportunity to install her sculpture in the newly enhanced garden, linking art with community paintings and events.
For unique architectural antiques, Historische Baustoffe is an eclectic warehouse just outside of Berlin. Featuring vintage treasures like doors and tiles, this collection resembles a whimsical park filled with fascinating curiosities. Each visit inspires Kwade’s artistic vision as she rummages through delightful finds that spark creativity and ideas for her work.
Berlin’s Tiergarten park spans over 500 acres, offering a lush escape in the bustling city. Ideal for leisurely walks or picnics, it houses well-known landmarks, including the Victory Column. The park’s history adds to its allure; replanted post-war, its trees today embody a spirit of rejuvenation and the city’s resilience, inviting moments of tranquility within the gardens.
Späth’sche Baumschulen, founded in 1720, is one of Europe’s oldest nurseries, teeming with a variety of trees, plants, and gardening supplies. Visitors can partake in seasonal festivities or simply relax in the café or beer garden. This historic venue embraces both passion and tradition for green spaces, showcasing the beauty of nature amid the city’s bustle.
Nestled in Treptower Park, Insel der Jugend, or the Island of Youth, graces the Spree River with picturesque views. A cherished spot for relaxation and boating, it offers a tranquil escape from city life, beckoning visitors to unwind and bask in its serene ambiance, while embracing the charms of Berlin’s natural surroundings.
Lastly, Alter Luisenstädtischer Friedhof is a serene cemetery in Kreuzberg, offering a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by towering trees and historic monuments, it pays homage to many notable 19th-century figures. It’s a tranquil haven for reflection, allowing visitors to connect with the memories of those who walked before them, amidst a backdrop of history and nature.
Alicja Kwade’s artistic journey began in her childhood in Katowice, Poland, culminating in her influential presence in Berlin’s vibrant art scene. After emigrating to Germany as a child, she emerged as a leading figure in contemporary art, renowned for her thought-provoking sculptures that challenge perceptions of reality and time. Kwade’s exploration of materials and themes continues to garner international acclaim, with her recommended local haunts offering a glimpse into the city’s cultural fabric that inspires her work.
Alicja Kwade stands as a unique artistic voice in Berlin, her reflections merging personal experiences with broader cultural themes. From her encounters in bars and eateries to the exploration of museums and parks, each recommended spot reveals her connection to the city and the inspirations that fuel her creativity. Through these cherished locations, Kwade invites others to appreciate the enchanting blend of art, history, and nature that shapes Berlin.
