Discover Germany | Issue 1 | February 2013

Issue 1 | February 2013

FRANKA POTENTE – Bit by the TV Bug

VISIT BERLIN – A Capital in Step with the Times

PLUS A GUIDE TO GERMAN DESIGNER GOODS CONTEMPORARY GERMAN ARTISTS STRIKE GOLD A NEW INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION IN EUROPE

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Discover Germany | Contents

Contents FEBRUARY 2013

20

COVER FEATURE 6

truly quirky and innovative design items – all made in Germany.

Franka Potente Franka Potente shot to fame as flame-haired Lola in Tom Tykwer’s thriller Run Lola Run, and after further critically acclaimed roles in German films, she made a smooth transition to Hollywood. Known for her role in the Bourne film series and for starring alongside Johnny Depp in Blow, she can now be seen on the small screen in the second season of US horror series American Horror Story.

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Berlin Steeped in its evocative history and the rapid changes that have taken place over the past two decades, Berlin today exerts its own particular fascination. More than twenty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany, the capital projects itself as a young, dynamic and cosmopolitan city at the heart of Europe which is constantly reinventing itself.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 10

Dedicated to Design For our very first issue, we have spotted some

Fashion Finds Take a cue from these chic and eclectic German fashion brands and spice up your winter wardrobe.

28

Hotel of the Month The Steigenberger Hotel Group allows you to enjoy a fully catered hotel stay in fresh and modern settings. The group's Berlin hotel is a true gem in the upscale commercial heart of the city.

SPECIAL THEME 20

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BULTHAUP epitomises the ultimate luxury in modern kitchen design.

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Restaurant of the Month Be taken aback by mouth-watering European dishes and an atmosphere out of the ordinary, in the renowned SAGE Restaurant.

36

41

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Attraction of the Month If you are looking to add more personality and depth to your next visit to a big city, then the Bröhan State Museum in Berlin should be at the top of your must-see list.

Since 2009, WALTER KNOLL has been available to the London clientele with a showroom displaying living and office furniture.

Business

48

Key note, columns, news stories and features on German companies and business development.

Culture Features, updates and news on German culture and lifestyle.

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 3

Dear Reader, Discover Germany

Sales & Key Account Manager

Issue 1, February 2013

Stefan Buettner

Published 25.01.2013

Advertising

ISSN 2051-7718

info@discovergermany.org.uk

Published by

Discover Germany is published by:

Scan Magazine Ltd. Design & Print Liquid Graphic Ltd. Executive Editor

Scan Magazine Ltd. 4 Baden Place Crosby Row London SE1 1YW

Thomas Winther Creative Director Mads E. Petersen Copy-Editors Nia Kajastie

Phone +44 (0)870 933 0423 info@discovergermany.org.uk For further information, please visit www.discovergermany.org.uk

Mark Rogers Graphic Designer Svetlana Slizova

It is with great pleasure that I present this debut issue of Discover Germany.

Our idea is to provide a unique English-language showcase for Brand Germany. We hope the magazine will appeal to all those who have a relationship with or a connection to Germany – be it through family, business, tourism, migration or investment.

In our first issue, we would like to introduce our readers to the multifaceted capital of Germany, which is also one of the top tourist destinations within Europe. While Berlin’s history is without a doubt of great interest to many travellers who would like to learn more about the former divided city, it is also known as a modern and multicultural hub for art, design, fashion and culture.

Learn more about what East Berlin has to offer visitors, in terms of both ironic nostalgia and trendsetting hotspots, and then join us on a tour of Berlin's beautiful and bustling waterways. We have also chosen the best hotel, restaurant and attraction in the capital.

Contributors Phil Thompson Julie Guldbrandsen Tina Awtani Cordelia Makartsev Rory MacLean Therese Wallin Anne Line Kaxrud Adelina Ibishi Stephen Clements Nia Kajastie Magnus Nygren Syversen Cover Photo S. Bukley/Shutterstock.com

Turn to our culture pages for an in-depth look at the biggest German names on the current art market. In our business section, we introduce our new law columnist, Gregor Kleinknecht of Klein Solicitors, who will be addressing both practical and complex issues that face German individuals moving to the UK or German companies setting up in business in the UK. As you have surely already noticed, the striking lady featured on the cover of our first issue is none other than German actress Franka Potente – a household name in Germany who has managed to make the transition to Hollywood – and who has recently been bitten by the TV bug. In our interview she opens up about her role in the hit US horror series American Horror Story, as well as her versatile career so far.

We hope you enjoy the very first issue of Discover Germany.

© All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of Scan Magazine Ltd. This magazine contains advertorials/promotional articles

4 | Issue 1 | February 2013

Thomas Winther Editor

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Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Franka Potente

Franka Potente – Bit by the TV bug

Franka Potente shot to fame as flame-haired Lola in Tom Tykwer’s thriller Run Lola Run, and after further critically acclaimed roles in German films, she made a smooth transition to Hollywood. Known for her role in the Bourne film series and for starring alongside Johnny Depp in Blow, she can now be seen on the small screen in the second season of US horror series American Horror Story (American Horror Story: Asylum), as well as BBC America drama Copper. Here, Potente opens up about fear, motherhood and her versatile career.

TEXT: PHIL THOMPSON / THE INTERVIEW PEOPLE | PHOTO: HELGA ESTEB / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Are you a fan of the horror genre in general?

Do I like horror movies? I do, yeah. I've done two before: Creep and Anatomy. But the first thing that comes to my mind when I watch American Horror Story is, for some reason, not horror. I don't know what you would call that - like in the way that Rosemary's Baby is not horror. What is that called? Creepy and suspenseful. I do like that.

Since we haven't seen the second season of American Horror Story yet, do you get to act with Jessica Lange, and do you enjoy these moments?

Most of my scenes are with Jessica and James Cromwell, which was, of course, a great joy. It's interesting for a younger or

middle-aged actor - I'm not a spring chicken either - to see these actors that sustain, that never cease to amaze an audience. Jessica just won an Emmy for it. I kept saying to my husband, "I'm going to take my acting lessons", when I went to work. So you can really just sit back and watch what they do. And there's a great comfort in working with people that are really about the work and very responsible.

They're like rocks.

And what really scares you in real life?

Since you like psychological thrillers, is something else as scary as that in real life?

I used to be awfully scared of flying.

Really?

Yeah. It's a luxury now - as I'm a mom now.

You realize that certain fears you have just kind of nurtured over the years, like a hobby or something. And I can't - I don't have time to be scared anymore on the plane. But I'm afraid of loss, and I'm afraid of death and having to deal with it.

You've been in both Copper and American Horror Story recently. Has the TV bug bit you, and how much do you enjoy the process?

Well, the first season of Copper is done now.

But we got picked up for a second one, so that's exciting. It's interesting to know that you have this long journey ahead of you where you tell a story, and Copper is very "ensemble-y". And you also don't know

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 7

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Franka Potente

kind of cool. I remember it was the same situation when I worked on The Shield, another TV show, a couple of years ago; I was a total fan. It feels like Christmas.You get to meet the characters, and it's just exciting.

It's always really, really nice. Because we work on a lot of things that you wouldn't otherwise necessarily see - you know what I mean? There are a lot of different reasons why you work, so yeah, it was a no-brainer.

What do you like most about the first season of American Horror Story? Did it really scare you, and do you believe that this second season is scarier than the first one?

David Chisum, Franka Potente and Jessica Lange in American Horror Story. Photo: FX Networks

what next week's script is going to bring for you. I like to work that way.You have a lot of time to develop a story and see what the other people are doing, and stuff like that.

And TV is very well done in America. It's liked by the audience - and liked by actors.

It really seems to be the place to go right now.

You have built a pretty amazing career for yourself.You are still active in Germany, of course.You are doing stuff for movies.You are a writer.You are on these amazing TV shows.

How much of that is planning, gauging your career and where you want to go, and how much of it is, perhaps, luck? How does that work?

Imagine a big buffet, and you just ate, like, maybe something savory, and then you think, "This looks good. I want to try this".

It's a little bit like that, which is a very luxurious situation. The acting is always there, and I really care for it, but I just don't like to be bored. There have sometimes been time gaps that were unforeseeable, and I just like to keep the creative energy flowing.

And writing has always been something that was interesting to me. It's more like a counterpoint. It's such a lonely job. It's so quiet, versus 80 people or something on set, being loud and hectic. And I like both.

8 | Issue 1 | February 2013

They kind of seem to complement each other.

How has motherhood changed you and changed your attitude to work?

I'm someone who can separate things very well. Work is work, and family and private life is private life. Everything, when it's new, is difficult, of course. And it was for me too, especially when something enters your life that is very, very important and new and takes a lot of energy and heart. And you pretty much use the same sources that you do in acting. But so far, knock on wood, everything has gone well. I think your priorities shift a little bit. Like if I had to be there for my child, then I would run and be there; I wouldn't run towards the trailer or movie set. But I think that's normal.

You described your career as a buffet. So if there is a plate with such a critically acclaimed show as American Horror Story with 17 Emmy nominations on it, does it help to choose that plate over other things?

What definitely helped was watching the first season. There's nothing better than working on something that you are a fan of, that you really like. And we were really looking forward to season two. So that's

What I liked about the first season - and I like it also about the second - first of all, is the opening titles. How creepy are they?

And that's awesome. I mean even after five episodes, I'm still, like (squirming), to this music. It makes me really uncomfortable.

It's very simple, and that's awesome. So that opens up everything. And I like the feel of it.To me, it is kind of like a nightmare or something. It taps into something that's very adult, very - I don't know. It's like what nightmares are made of, the darkness, the grossness. Right?

Absolutely.

It's hard to describe. And I think that season one had that, and I think season two definitely has it as well. I don't know if it's scarier. I think it's different. It's not less scary. I'm really just like the audience. I only know my two episodes, and the rest, I'm also just watching. But so far I'm pretty satisfied. It has not let me down.

How old is your child, and at what age do you think you'd let him or her watch American Horror Story?

She's not even two, so‌ (laughs) I don't know. I only remember, when I was seven, I saw King Kong, the black-and-white version. And I could not sleep for a couple of days. So I think‌ So six or seven? (laughs) Might give it a try. Who knows?

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Discover Germany | Design | Dedicated to Design

Dedicated to Design...

1

For our very first issue, we have spotted some truly quirky and innovative design items – all made in Germany.

They are a testament to how creativity, functionality and fun can easily go hand in hand. We hope you feel as inspired as we do by these cool German design novelties.

BY JULIE GULDBRANDSEN | EMAIL: JULIE.GULDBRANDSEN@DISCOVERGERMANY.ORG.UK

2

‘Mustache is the new black’ greeting cards are delightfully refreshing. A surprising and amusing type of greeting for many occasions. App. £3.20 for five cards. www.stellavie.com If you have been looking for that perfectly geared and distinct bicycle, look no further; with My Own Bike you are completely in charge of designing your individual luxury cycle. Prices start at around £714.00. www.myownbike.de

The mathematically inspired little side table by The Fundamental Group comprises 256 cubes of solid European oak arranged in a hexagonal field. Available in oiled oak with solid brass legs (H 35cm x W 60cm x D 60cm). £528.00. www.thefundamentalshop.com

3

The handmade glass lamp ‘lumière de rêve’ by Studio Oink is a beautiful modern version of a chandelier.

It creates a lovely warm light and you can choose between six different cord colours. App. £118.00. selekkt.com

4 10 | Issue 1 | February 2013

These delicious chocolate bars by Lapp & Fao are presented as diaries based on the designers’ adventurous travels. The high-quality chocolate is handmade and based on traditional recipes. No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. App. £4.70. www.lappandfao.com

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

Fashion Finds Cold-weather fashion certainly does not have to be lacklustre. Take a cue from these chic and eclectic German fashion brands and spice up your winter wardrobe.

BY JULIE GULDBRANDSEN EMAIL: JULIE.GULDBRANDSEN@DISCOVERGERMANY.ORG.UK

12 | Issue 1 | February 2013

Berlin-based fashion designer Issever Bahri creates sophisticated collections using luxurious and contrasting materials, as embodied in this chic outfit. High-waist leather wrap skirt, app. £ 552.00. Cropped mohair jumper, app. £260.00. Crocheted leather clutch, app. £584.00. www.isseverbahri.com

Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

This red kufiyaprint and slightly transparent silk shirt by Lala Berlin is a cool choice for both day and night. App. £203.00. www.lalaberlin-onlineshop.de/en

Glam trousers, like these cool leather leggings with zips, are an essential party piece, but absolutely legit during the day too. The perfect accompaniment to oversized shirts and knits alike. App. £435. www.cesttout.de

Knitwear is a winter essential but it’s also a great transitional style. The gorgeous light blue colour will add zest to your favourite skinnies and give you a taste of spring. App. £199.00. www.lalaberlin-onlineshop.de/en

All women need a beautiful clutch. This one in rose perch leather is a beautiful and versatile model – there is a hidden long strap inside, and it can be folded out and used as a shoulder bag. App. £216.00. www.mygretchen.com

By combining a beautiful silk skirt with a tailored wool jumper you will exude exclusiveness. The leather shoulder yokes of the top give it a bit of edge.

Silk pencil skirt, app. £320.00.

Cropped jumper, app. £454.00. www.isseverbahri.com

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 13

Discover Germany | Design | Made in Germany

14 | Issue 1 | February 2013

Made in Germany – A Londoner’s guide to German designer goods When it comes to German design, the words Made in Germany are often associated with efficiency and performance rather than sleek silhouettes and elegance. Discover Germany takes a closer look at German interior design to discover what lies behind this preconception and reveals where you can get your hands on some German design goods in London.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

Historically, design gained importance in Germany with the rise of the industrial revolution and mass production. In 1859, German carpenter Michael Thonet created the iconic coffee shop chair, which consisted of six individual wooden parts held together by a few screws.The design was simple but ingenious. The easy-to-assemble chair was a cornerstone of modern industrial furniture design.

BULTHAUP Bulthaup’s b1, b2 and b3 systems have won countless design awards all over the globe. Material authenticity, the aim for perfection and a system-orientated approach are the key ingredients for the holistic kitchen-living space concept.

The Kitchen People Ltd. 37 Wigmore Street, London, W1U 1PP www.bulthaup.com

Only a few years later, in 1919, the famous Bauhaus art academy opened its doors in the German town Weimar. Modern architecture, design and art were explored as coherent parameters. The founder of the Bauhaus, architect Walter Gropius, initiated the development of the avant-garde and classic modernist style. Together with German-born architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and French colleague Le Corbusier, he changed the perception and the creation of modern design for generations to come. Clarity and simplicity were the inspirational key features, and the motto was “less is more”, as van der Rohe famously said. German Bauhaus design conquered living rooms and offices all over the world with iconic creations such as the Wassily chair by Marcel Breuer, the Barcelona range by van der Rohe, and the famous WG 24 lamp by Wilhelm Wagenfeld and Karl J. Jucker.

All these inspiring German masterpieces can be found at Chaplins in London, the largest independent modern furniture and

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 15

Discover Germany | Design | Made in Germany

BRÜHL & SIPPOLD Brühl & Sippold’s creations feature contemporary design and a young product range to fit into any living room (even the smaller ones). Clean lines and fresh colours, awardwinning environmental awareness and clear-cut, defined forms define their signature look. The new easy pieces product range is another award-worthy design by the German upholstery manufacturer. Brühl & Sippold is available at Chaplins.

contemporary living showroom in Europe, boasting 180 international designer brands.

The trade showrooms and interior design services are located in the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre, whereas the retail premises are located just at the edge of North West London. Dennis Barclay, sales manager at Chaplins, explains why Londoners love German design objects: “It’s due to the simplistic style, attention to detail and wide choice of finishes available in the collections.” But there is more to it, as eco-friendly production turned out to be a winning factor for the Germans. “A lot of our customers like the fact that the German companies try to use sustainable materials where possible and adopt environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. Also, the process from manufacture to the end customer is a smooth one with very few problems in terms of fitting, plus all German

16 | Issue 1 | February 2013

products come with some sort of guarantee so they represent long-term value,”Barclay says. He also points out the importance of utilising space, which is highly limited in Central London: “Functionality and hidden storage seem to be part of a growing trend with customers trying to eliminate clutter from their lives.”

Another London hotspot for modern designer furniture is Aram in London’s vibrant Covent Garden area. Established in 1946, Aram features four floors of international designer goods and objects for even the most discerning customer. Aram proudly holds the worldwide licence for the complete Eileen Gray furniture range.

She was not actually German, but today every single item of her renowned designs is carefully manufactured, stamped and numbered in a German workshop under

supervision of Aram Design Ltd. At Aram, you find the WG 24 lamp and the Barcelona chair alongside a large variety of the most iconic design items.

Today, German product design may be described as sustainable and functional with a clean aesthetic. German furniture manufacturers such as Hülsta with its prime label Rolf Benz, Brühl & Sippold, Interlübke, Walter Knoll and outdoor furniture expert Dedon are just a few examples of innovative design teamed with classic timelessness and a high level of engineering.

When it comes to kitchens, the Germans really hit the mark. Head down to Bulthaup in Mayfair and check out the award-winning b1, b2 and b3 systems symbolising the ultimate in design, style and functionality. A Bulthaup kitchen is considered the epitome

Discover Germany | Design | Made in Germany

WALTER KNOLL When Wilhelm Knoll started creating leather seats in 1865, he wouldn’t have dreamed about becoming one of the most iconic furniture manufacturers in Germany. His grandson Hans Knoll founded “Knoll International” in 1938 (which is a different entity).

Since 2009, Walter Knoll is available to the London clientele with a showroom displaying living and office furniture.

WG24 lamp by Wilhelm Wagenfeld and Karl J. Jucker, available at Aram.

Photo: Tecnolumen

Markus Benz, CEO of Walter Knoll, described the Jaan Living range (Design: EOOS) with the words: “Nonchalance de luxe. Armchair, armchair récamière and upholstered bench naturally gather around the sofa. The extensions to the Jaan Living range create expansive living landscapes. With spacious seat elements on a delicate framework – the hallmark of the award-winning range.”

Walter Knoll, 42 Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6EA, United Kingdom www.walterknoll.de

DEDON When professional Bayern Munich footballer Bobby Dekeyser was hospitalised for injury in 1990, he decided to turn his back on a promising career in sports and became an entrepreneur in the outdoor furniture business. Dedon invented the woven synthetic fibre outdoor furniture and has won numerous design awards for its creations ever since. Dedon continuously produces innovative items such as the award-winning iconic Orbit XXL rotating island or the hanging basket Nestrest. Dedon is available at Chaplins.

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 17

Discover Germany | Design | Made in Germany

BOSCH

LEONARDO

This year Bosch scooped the “Which? Best Home Appliance Brand” award in the UK for the second year in a row. Bosch brand manager Rosalinda Buttice was honoured to receive the award as “a testament to Bosch’s continuous innovation and endeavour to design and produce outstanding appliances”. The new Winning Line product range features appealing design combined with energy efficiency, sustainability and innovation. Available at www.currys.co.uk

With 150 years of history, the family-run business Glaskoch invented the label Leonardo. The German market leader in gift and glass items is a prime example of contemporary and colourful design.

Leonardo products, such as the new Wave range, are widely available all over the globe. One of the London stockists is Debenhams.

Every year prestigious design awards, such as the iF product design award or the International Design Excellence Awards, are presented to honour new product designs. One of the most coveted international trophies is the German red dot award for design. In 2012, more than 4,500 entries from 58 nations competed for 62 “red dot award: product design 2012” awards. The red dot is internationally acknowledged as a symbol for excellent long-term design quality.

Koziol Coffee Maker, red dot award: product design 2012, available at John Lewis

Fissler luno wok, red dot award: product design 2012 available at Selfridges

KÖNIG KITCHENS Visit the UK's biggest German kitchen outlet in Wimbledon. High-gloss, matt or classic kitchens are fitted with state-of-the-art appliances from suppliers such as Franke, Miele, Neff or Siemens. 19 High Street, Wimbledon, SW19 5EG, www.konigkitchens.com

Siemens Built-In Stove and Induction Hob, red dot award: product design 2012, Photo: red dot

GIRA Gira takes intelligent home technology to a new height. With Gira’s technology you can manage your home appliances even from far away with your mobile. Use your iPhone to switch off the coffee machine, open the front door with a fingerprint or adapt your lighting systems to the daylight. Energy efficiency is key, and Gira will make sure that no energy will be lost or wasted in your home. Any new building equipped with a KNX/EIB system can now be controlled via Gira, the brand for a truly futuristic and energy-efficient lifestyle. (Below left) Gira’s UK Account Manager: Muir Baxter, 507 O Central, 83 Crampton Street, London, SE17 3BU, Tel. +44(0)7738 232 816, www.gira.com

POGGENPOHL Founded in 1892, Poggenpohl is the oldest kitchen brand in the world. The company set industry standards with the introduction of white lacquer furniture, ergonomic worktop heights and the kitchen island. Poggenpohl describes its kitchen design as “a unique combination of visionary thinking, unique aesthetics, precise engineering mixed with traditional craftsmanship and lifetime quality”. Visit the showroom in Finchley Road to take a look at the sleek Porsche kitchen which is defined by passion, performance, purism and precision. (Above right) Poggenpohl, 477-481 Finchley Road, London, NW3 6HS

18 | Issue 1 | February 2013

VILLEROY & BOCH 267 Merton Road, London, SW18 5JS www.villeroy-boch.com

MIELE Visit the Miele Gallery in Marylebone to discover the sleek design of its award-winning appliances. The Gallery features an impressive range of products from cooker hoods to wine coolers. All interactive appliances can be experienced by customers with an expert always on hand. London in particular is a region where customers are becoming more and more health conscious and that is reflected in the Miele product range. Amy Carter, home economist at the Miele Gallery, explains: “Combination Steam ovens are the biggest growth area for Miele in terms of cooking.

Steam cooking is an increasingly popular choice with our customers wanting to achieve a healthier way of living and cooking.” Miele Gallery, 15-19 Cavendish Place, London, W1G 0QE, www.miele.co.uk

of modern luxury. Close contender Poggenpohl, which teamed up with car manufacturer Porsche to create a kitchen range that is second to none in terms of minimalistic design, opened a gorgeous showroom in Hampstead. And if you are looking for a more economical solution, why not visit König Kitchens in Wimbledon, the UK’s largest German kitchen outlet.

No designer kitchen is complete without elegant appliances and accessories, a market strongly dominated by German suppliers. Bosch, Miele, Neff and Siemens products are appreciated worldwide, and all of them have one thing in common: they are environmentally friendly and energy efficient while still offering great design features. Intelligent homes are the new trend, so ideally all appliances are best managed with the help of high-tech brand Gira. Talk to Gira’s UK representative to find out how a house can be equipped with a brain and reduce power consumption with intelligent building technology. Once the appliances are managed and dinner is ready, the stage is all set for glorious designer tableware. For a huge range of amazing designs visit the Villeroy & Boch ceramics store in Wimbledon.Villeroy & Boch have been manufacturing award-winning bathroom and wellness products as well as tableware for over 260 years. The new Mariefleur tableware range sets the mood for spring, while the NewWave Caffè Lon-

don white coffee cup is perfectly made for the design savvy Londoner.

Last but not least, we would like to present you happy design made in Germany. Have you ever met Pico Bello, the table dustpan and brush in form of a Scottish terrier? Do you know the Herbie brothers herb chopper or Fred the frog measuring tape? All these little characters are designed to make the world a happier place. With 85 years of constant innovation, Koziol, the“happiness factory”, has been rewarded with the most prestigious design awards. The company follows a strict happiness policy and states: “Koziol invents and creates design objects that make our world more attractive. That capture imaginations and inspire happiness.” Koziol products are widely available all over London: you will find them at Selfridges, Heals and many other stores.

LAMY Dating back to 1930, Lamy has been creating iconic pens ever since. However, the creation of the Lamy 2000 in 1966 was a design milestone for the company.

Today the award-winning new LAMY Scala “is the writing instrument for all those who are enthusiastic about modern high-quality technology and don’t mind showing their passion for the beautiful things in life”. (Lamy) Scala 2012, Pen Heaven, 184 Cricklewood Lane, London NW2 2DX, www.penheaven.co.uk

So have you developed a taste for German designer goods? Then go ahead and get your desired design item and do it the German way with an electric bike from the Smart showroom in Brentford. Beat the congestion charge and commute in style with this fast, convenient and eco-friendly e-bike.

SMART

In conclusion, German design really is all about efficiency and performance, but manufacturers add large elements of style, sustainability and eco-friendliness to their success recipe.

The Smart e-bike features extraordinary design, innovative smartphone integration, a carbon belt drive, high performance and energy efficiency. Winner of various industry awards, it makes a stylish, eco-friendly and congestion charge-free commuter vehicle for Central London. Smart, Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9AH, www.smart.com

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 19

Capital in Step with the Times Steeped in its evocative history and the rapid changes that have taken place over the past two decades, Berlin today exerts its own particular fascination.

More than twenty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany, the capital projects itself as a young, dynamic and cosmopolitan city at the heart of Europe which is constantly reinventing itself.

Special Theme

TEXT: VISITBERLIN / BERLIN TOURISMUS & KONGRESS GMBH | PHOTOS: PRESS.VISITBERLIN.DE

travel destination. Guests are not only interested in the history and culture of the city, but also in the lifestyle of its inhabitants. In 2011, the tourism metropolis Berlin has set a historical record: for the first time the magical mark of 22 million overnights per year was exceeded. In this way, Berlin was able to further strengthen its position as top third destination in Europe, after London and Paris.

City of unlimited possibilities Since reunification the former “walled city” of Berlin has developed into a popular

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But exactly what is it that actually makes Berlin so attractive? It is the diversity, the

Neptune Fountain and Berlin Cathedral © Wolfgang Scholvien

Variety is guaranteed, but you can also travel to the German capital for rest and relaxation. In Berlin, a fast-paced metropolis and relaxing rest areas in nature are not far apart. Whether in Tiergarten, Tempelhofer Freiheit, Görlitzer Park or Grunewald – every district has its green oasis, which improves the quality of living and allows visitors to take a short break.

Reichstag Dome © Wolfgang Scholvien

Berlin

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Berlin

lis with a population of around 3.5 million.

Attractive offerings in terms of art and culture Whether it is the art of the old masters, present-day paintings or avant-garde design of tomorrow, a classical opera, musical or hip hop concert, sophisticated theatre or the variety shows with their chequered repertoire – with around 1,500 events every day, Berlin’s cultural calendar features an assortment that leaves nothing to be desired.

With their historic art collections, unusual architecture and new exhibition concepts, some 180

museums cannot fail to make a visit to the capital an unforgettable experience. At the heart of Berlin’s art landscape is the Museum Island, encompassing five buildings in the historic city centre. Since the Neues Museum was reopened in October 2009, it is the first time in 70 years that all the museums in the ensemble, unique in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, are accessible to the public. In addition to the Pergamon Altar and the famous bust of Nefertiti, valuable art treasures covering around 6,000 years of the history of mankind are on view.

Nevertheless, over the last few years Berlin has also succeeded in making a worldwide name for itself as a location for contemporary art in the shape of high-quality exhibitions at the Hamburger Bahnhof, in the New National Gallery or at MartinGropius-Bau. In addition, the regional Association of Berlin Galleries currently counts some 440 galleries in the art me-

Charlottenburg Palace © Wolfgang Scholvien

Classic Open Air at Gendarmen market © Günter Steffen

contrasts and the sheer inexhaustible potential of this capital city to consistently fire the enthusiasm of visitors from all over the world. People are excited by the mixture of history and zeitgeist, the broad spectrum of art, culture, music, entertainment and shopping facilities.The modern hotel landscape, the diversity of its cuisine and its outstanding cost-effectiveness in comparison to other destinations in Europe also add to the special charm that is characteristic of the metropolis on the Spree. Berlin’s flourishing creative scene, together with a hip music and club culture, likewise contributes to the unmistakable magnetism of the lifestyle metropo-

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 21

Zoological Garden © Wolfgang Scholvien

opportunity to become familiar with the latest trends on the fashion scene.

Neither are the shopping facilities in Berlin any less varied than the fashion. It’s all there – from chic to trendy, from elegant haute couture right through to casual urban and street wear. The four big shopping complexes – Kurfürstendamm, Potsdamer Platz, Friedrichstrasse and Alexanderplatz – as well as numerous big shopping centres along with smaller trend shops in the ’scene’ districts of Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain beckon, en-

Lovers of classical music will find something to their liking not only at the Staatsoper Unter but also at the Deutsche Oper and the Komische Oper. The German capital is the only metropolitan area in the world that is able to boast three opera houses. Eight large symphony orchestras – one of which is the world-renowned Berlin Philharmonic under the direction of Sir Simon Rattle – likewise offer first-class musical enjoyment. One hundred and fifty theatre stages, both large and small, play spirited avant-garde pieces as well as major classics and ensure a wide diversity of entertainment options encompassing all genres. A multi-faceted and chequered canvas of entertainment is also on offer for visitors to Berlin in the big music houses, in dazzling revue theatres like the Friedrichstadtpalast, in vaudeville shows like in the famous Wintergarten or in numerous smaller cabaret and comedy shows.

Creative metropolis and capital city of trends As a UNESCO “City of Design“ and the first German city to figure in the worldwide network of “Creative Cities“, Berlin is well to the fore in the architecture, art and fashion sectors. It is here in the hip ’scene’

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Pei-Bau © Günter Steffen

tropolis. Furthermore, around 200 noncommercial showrooms and off spaces, which regularly show new exhibitions, have to be added.

metropolis that tomorrow’s trends are born.

Over the last few years Berlin has established itself as a centre of modern design.

The capital inspires and offers space for unusual ideas, innovative concepts and unconventional life scripts of each and every kind. Attracted by this dynamism and the sense of creative euphoria, numerous international artists and designers come to Berlin looking to gain inspiration from its lively atmosphere and to expand their creative potential and give vent to all its diversity. The annual DMY Design Festival showcases new trends.

The City of Creativity has also developed into a centre for young and avant-garde fashion. As in other areas of design, a wealth of ideas, individuality and quality are the order of the day here too. Numerous international exhibitions like the Bread&Butter or the Berlin Fashion Week offer visitors the

ticing the visitor with their enormous range of goods and their liberal opening times.

With its pulsating nightlife and unusual locations, the party metropolis weaves a spell that captivates everyone. Berliners and international tourists can experience the sound of the capital in the hip bars and discotheques of the city, where people dance and party right through to the small hours.

FACTS The regularly updated, all-inclusive prices offered by visitBerlin enable visitors to embark on a particularly cost-effective voyage of discovery within this exciting metropolis – once, twice, over and over again! You can book these offers by visiting www.visitBerlin.com or by telephoning (+49) 030 – 25 00 25.

Going East in Berlin In 2006, Berlin’s ever-so-popular mayor, Klaus Wowereit, won his election campaign with the slogan: Berlin: poor but sexy. Six years later, the city has a wealth on offer which is hard to match. Cheap rents and low living costs have attracted a young, creative crowd who are transforming Germany’s capital into one of Europe’s cultural hotspots.

TEXT: CORDELIA MAKARTSEV

The converted bunker in Berlin-Mitte exhibits artwork from the Boros Collection. Photo: NOSHE Left: Christian and Karen Boros. Photo: Wolfgang Stahr

In 1910, the acclaimed art historian Karl Scheffler wrote his most famous lines about Berlin, describing it as“a city that never is, but is always in the process of becoming”.

One hundred years later, this is still true.

After the fall of the wall, an immense building programme triggered Berlin’s metamorphosis into a hypermodern metropolis. Naturally, the transformation affected the former GDR parts of Berlin the most. Nowhere else in Germany were (and partly still are) the rents as low as in East Berlin. And nowhere else in Germany do we find an

equal vibe of avant-garde international urban culture. The openness, curiosity and innovative spirit is reminiscent of the Golden Twenties, Berlin’s legendary but brief-blossoming period, when artists, writers and musicians from all over the world flocked to the city. So now is the time to go explore the new/old East Berlin.

From reds to riches: Berlin-Mitte When a Berliner speaks of Berlin-Mitte, he is usually not referring to the larger district Mitte (German for middle), but to the smaller historic core of the city. In the nineties, this was the heart of a young and

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Berlin

creative art scene.Today, Mitte is one of the most expensive parts of Berlin and includes significant touristic sites like the Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, Unter den Linden and Potsdamer Platz.

Here, in 2003, Christian and Karen Boros found the perfect location for their contemporary art collection - a 3000-squaremetre cement bunker, originally built as a Nazi bomb shelter. Before it was discovered by the couple, the building went through a colourful history, from being a Cuban banana warehouse in the GDR era (the socalled ‘banana bunker’) to one of the world’s toughest techno clubs after the fall of the Iron Curtain.

Today, the 80 renovated, windowless rooms, where the bullet holes in the walls can still be seen, house the second exhibition of Christian and Karen Boros’s private collection. It features a mix of international and young German art since 1990. The focus of the collection lies on the clash of different media like video art, photography, sculpture and paintings. In the huge bare rooms of the bunker, sound is very cleverly used to provide an extraordinary sensory experience. The artists were given free rein to install their works, although implementing the six-metre tree, a work of the Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, caused a few headaches.

“The exhibits of our collection originated in Berlin. They belong to this city and here they should be on display,” Karen Boros explains.

Berlin-Mitte is not only a touristic hotspot, it is also known for its excellent restaurants.

Kolja Kleeberg, one of Germany’s most popular TV chefs, opened his place called VAU on Jägerstraße, just around the corner from the Gendarmenmarkt. He serves classic French cuisine combined with regional products and individual creations from the Michelin-starred kitchen.The modern, stylish interior of the restaurant was designed

by Meinhard von Gerkan, the architect of the new Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Central Railway Station).

Prenzlauer Berg: Trendsetter in design, fashion and food Gourmets who prefer a home-cooked dinner head for the farmers’ market on Kollwitzplatz in the Prenzlauer Berg district.

The market is said to be one of Berlin’s best foodie heavens and a regular meeting point for the chattering classes. Organic fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, cheese and bread are sold by hand-picked vendors. For the starving visitors numerous food-to-go stalls offer French mussels with prosecco or the famous Berliner currywurst. With stalls selling everything from olive oils, handmade jam

and honey to arts and crafts from around the world, this is the perfect place to pick up unique presents for friends and family.

Prenzlauer Berg was one of the first areas to be gentrified after German reunification.

Once firmly in the hands of students and artists, Prenzlberg, as the Berliners call it, has now the reputation of being inhabited by young, well-off families and creative people from different countries. Karen Riefflin, freelance writer for TV serials and Prenzlberg resident, explains why:“I just love the vivid atmosphere here. Step out of your door and you will definitely encounter new ideas and different languages.” Especially the area around Kastanienallee boasts numerous cute little cafes, fashion boutiques and galleries. Small but trendy design shops offer a witty, offbeat mix of fashion, accessories and furniture. At the O3 Berlin, local artists and designers rent space in order to present their work. Only self-designed products are on sale, which are mostly handmade or produced in small series.

If you have had enough of bustling markets and are looking for some peace and quiet, Germany’s biggest synagogue is waiting to be discovered on Rykestraße. Or pay a visit to the old Jewish cemetery at Schönhauser Allee where famous people from the Jewish community, like the painter Max Liebermann, found their last home.

On a sunny, warm Sunday afternoon Berlin’s beloved Mauerpark flea market is a must-see for vintage lovers, and karaoke enthusiasts. The area, once the site of the Berlin Wall and the associated ‘death strip’, is now attracting a colourful crowd of bargain hunters, families, students and yuppies alike.You can buy everything from cutlery, silverware, DDR memorabilia, antique books and vinyl. But do not miss the karaoke session in the amphitheatre, the so-called ‘bear pit’, in the afternoon - not necessarily featuring impressive singing talent, but instead lots of fun and good community spirit.

Top left: Farmers’ market on Kollwitzplatz Top right: Kastanienallee Left below: Synagogue on Rykestraße Right below: Mauerpark Photos: Andreas Schmidt, tic

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Berlin

the museum guard will not tell you off if you give into your nosiness and rummage through the drawers of the wall unit. A highlight of the exhibition is the Trabant – the small, noisy and smelly GDR-produced car which looks like a giant biscuit tin. Have a seat and go on a simulated ride through the run-down streets of old eastern Berlin.

BERLIN-MITTE Sammlung Boros/The Boros Collection Bunker, Reinhardtstr. 20 The collection can only be visited in groups of up to 12 people. The tours take place from Thursday to Sunday and cost 10 €/person.

There are tours available in English. Visitors will have to make an advance appointment on the website www.sammlung-boros.de. It is advisable to book early as the bunker is very popular.

Restaurant VAU Jägerstraße 54/55, www.vau-berlin.de

Top: The authentic living room at the DDR Museum invites visitors to sit down and watch original GDR TV. Right: A highlight of the museum’s exhibition – the Trabant. Have a seat and go on a simulated ride through the run-down streets of old eastern Berlin.

Below: DDR Museum entrance

Interested in learning more about the wall?

A short stroll from Mauerpark further down Bernauer Straße is the Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer (Berlin Wall Memorial) and the associated Visitor Centre, which offer excellent insight into the development of the border fortifications between West and East Berlin.The 1.4-kilometre stretch of the Berlin Wall with the preserved grounds behind it can be viewed from an original watchtower.

A journey through time: Experience everyday life in the GDR If you want to delve deeper into real life under socialism, the DDR Museum is the place for you. Claiming to be one of the most interactive museums in the world, it was nominated for the European Museum of the Year Award 2008. This is your oncein-a-lifetime chance to slip into the role of a Stasi agent and witness how it felt to listen in on bugged neighbours. The authentic living room invites visitors to sit down and watch original GDR TV. And

For more adventurous drivers there is a real Trabant experience available.Trabi Safari offers self-drive tours through Berlin. After a short introduction, you will sit behind the wheel of an original East Germany Trabi and follow the lead vehicle, taking in the sights of the city on your way. Your guide provides you with historical facts and amazing stories via radio.

Berliners call this slightly weird, ironic nostalgia for the absurdities of life in the old East Germany ‘Ostalgie’. Clothes, furniture and even the food from the old East Germany are in vogue these days. Restaurants like the ‘Osseria’ spoil their guests with home-cooked ‘Senfeier’ (boiled eggs in mustard sauce) or ‘Schmorgurken’ (cucumber stew). After dinner, you can have sweet dreams under Honecker’s watchful eyes in the ‘Ostel’, which claims to be the most authentic GDR design hostel in Berlin. “No decadent western frivolity: honest bunk beds and a communal bathroom, all in the spirit of collectivism”is the slogan for their most simple rooms, the Pioneer Camp. If your “spirit of collectivism” is underdeveloped, you can also stay in a single or double bedroom.

PRENZLAUER BERG Farmers’ Market on Kollwitzplatz Saturday 8am-6pm O3 Berlin Oderbergerstrasse 3, www.o3-berlin.de Mauerpark Flea Market Bernauer Straße 63-64 Open: Sundays 10am-6pm Karaoke www.bearpitkaraoke.com Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer (Berlin Wall Memorial) Bernauer Straße 111/119 Open all year round Monday-Sunday, 8am-10pm www.berliner-mauer-gedenkstaette.de Visitor Centre April-October, Tuesday-Sunday, 9.30am-7pm November-March, Tuesday-Sunday, 9.30am-6pm LIFE IN THE GDR DDR Museum www.ddr-museum.de Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 1, Mon-Sun, 10am-8pm, Sat 10am-10pm, Admission fee: 5.50 € Trabi Safari Zimmerstr. 97/ Wilhelmstr., www.trabi-safari.de English guides available upon prior request Osseria Langhansstraße 103, www.osseria.de Ostel Wriezener Karree 5, www.ostel.eu

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 25

Berlin’s LittleVenice(s) Little Venice – or Tiefwerder – is a Berlin secret. The one-time fishing village among the Havel reed beds lies twenty minute’s drive – and a century’s time travel – west of the Brandenburg Gate. All summer water laps at the foot of overgrown lawns in this leafy enclave of 19th-century ‘settlers’ houses’ and weekend cottages. Sunday gardeners snooze beneath their open newspapers. Pike breed in the shallows. It’s a place of remarkable quiet where almost no work seems to get done – apart from the dipping of paddles in the cool waters.

TEXT: RORY MACLEAN

Berlin is both a green and a blue capital, graced with dozens of parks, crisscrossed by winding rivers, surrounded by curving lakes reminiscent of Scandinavia and Scotland.

Its many waterways are awash with sculling, puffing, tacking traffic for three seasons a year. Luxurious Stern und Kreisschiffahrt tour ships ply between 80 landing points from the Berlin cathedral to Potsdam and Köpenick. BVG public ferries scoot across the Havel and Kleiner Müggelsee.

Bright white sailing boats skim over the Wannsee. Heavy coal barges chug along the Hohenzollernkanal into Westhafen.

In the nineteenth century – for the most part because of the neoclassical architecture

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of Schinkel and Stüler – Berlin dubbed itself Athens on the Spree. A century later Walther Rathenau – industrial tycoon, dinner jacket philosopher and Weimar foreign minister – celebrated the modern city’s growth with the words, “The Athens of the Spree is dead and a Chicago on the Spree is emerging in its place.”

Back then the Landwehrkanal, a six-milelong urban canal which runs through the city’s heart and parallel to the Spree, was a popular spot for dumping both rubbish and corpses. Murder victims were often found floating in its murky waters, most notable among them the Communist activist Rosa Luxemburg whose body was dropped

through the ice in January 1919. Today instead of corpses, the clean waters abound with dinghies and inflatable rafts. Families, friends and lovers drift alongside the PaulLinke-Ufer, enjoying the breeze, pulling ashore to picnic, order pizzas or restock their cool boxes. Balconies along the canal often double as boathouses for canoes and windsurf boards.

Of all the vessels afloat on Berlin’s rivers and lakes, none is more peculiar than the Floß. These motorised rafts potter across lakes or tuck under great weeping willows for swimming or birthday parties. Couples have been married in their flimsy wooden cabins, and on warm weekend afternoons

Discover Germany | Special Theme | Berlin

ashore and catch the sun on the sloping crescents of sand. Across the surface bob the heads of dozens of swimmers framed by the brilliant green of the trees.

Come winter almost all of Berlin’s rivers and lakes become skating rinks, and most weekends the whole city seems to pull on its thermal long johns, lace thermoses of hot chocolate with rum and glide across the glassy surfaces. On the Großer Glienicke See, near Potsdam and once part of the West Berlin/East Germany border, the local ice anglers’club pretends to catch fish while indulging their real enthusiasm for mulled Glühwein.

Given the city’s history of division, it’s no surprise that Berlin also boasts an eastern Little Venice. Twenty minutes east of the Brandenburg Gate, at the edge of the Müggelsee, a second Klein-Venedig is tucked away near Rahnsdorf S-Bahn station. But whether east or west, there are few better places in all of northern Europe to let the days drift away than on Berlin’s waterways.

Main image: Little Venice. Photo: © Christian Duschinger, Dreamstime.com Right (clockwise): Tiefwerder. Photo: Wikimedia Commons, Lienhard Schulz; Houseboats on the Flutgraben of the Landwehrkanal at the Unterschleuse (Tiergarten, Berlin).

Photo: Wikipedia; Berlin from the river Spree and the Landwehrkanal. Photo: Reederei Bruno Winkler

RORY MACLEAN

Berlin’s clubbers often fall off the dance floors and on to their decks, catching up on sleep in the sunshine.

But for me the loveliest waterways are in the Tiefwerder. At the end of a sleepy lane off Heerstrasse, ‘Canadier’ canoes and kayaks can be rented from the friendly folks at Der Bootladen. One casts off from their dock to idle along the narrow canals, gliding be-

tween lily pad beds and flotillas of ducks.

For a little excitement (and to increase the heart rate) one can paddle out onto the Havel to vie with vast barges ploughing through the Pichelssee channel. Beyond its lighthouses, the river opens into a lake dotted with sailing boats and other pleasure craft. Here broad, earthen footpaths wind down to the shore from which bathers step into favourite coves. It’s a fine place to pull

Rory MacLean has known three Berlins: West Berlin, where he made movies with David Bowie; East Berlin, where he researched his first best-selling book Stalin's Nose; and the unified capital where he lives and works today. His nine awardwinning books have challenged and invigorated travel writing, and – according to the late John Fowles – are among works that “marvellously explain why literature still lives”. His tenth book, a history of Berlin, will be published worldwide by Weidenfeld & Nicolson in late 2013.

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 27

Everything you want in Business or pleasure? There is no need to choose. The Steigenberger Hotel Group allows you to enjoy a fully catered hotel stay in fresh and modern settings, with all your needs attended to. The group's Berlin hotel is a true gem in the upscale commercial heart of the city, and its staff is eternally dedicated to ensuring that all of the hotel's guests have the best of times. Overseeing all this to ensure that the hotel always offers its guests a top-quality experience is hotel director Torsten K. Schulze, whose extensive career as an hotelier ensures that his hotel is always the prime spot for those visiting Berlin.

TEXT: THERESE WALLIN | PHOTOS: STEIGENBERGER HOTELS AND RESORTS

Hotel

of the Month

Berlin offers visitors an endless number of diverse sights and experiences, and it has caught the hearts of many, leaving visitors mesmerised with its historic and modern cultural sights and its uniquely dynamic urban landscape.The city has something for everyone, but the key to a pleasant visit that leaves a longing for more is to stay at the right hotel, and this is where Steigenberger Hotel in Berlin distinguishes itself.

Sleep, rise and shine, and dine in an environment of luxury tailored to your needs.

Schulze explains that what visitors appreciate the most about the Berlin hotel is that “it stands out as a warm and friendly host

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Hotel Director Torsten K. Schulze

with unrivalled focus on quality, the hallmark of all Steigenberger hotels�.

Business as well as pleasure at the heart of the city Whilst many hotels focus on a certain clientele, Steigenberger Hotel Berlin has managed not to limit itself, instead emphasising the experience as a whole so as to cater to all kinds of visitors, rather than solely having business visitors or private tourists.The trick lies in the hotel's ability to specialise in catering to individual needs and in its meticulous planning, which enables its staff to look after all its guests.

The hotel's doors are always open to all guests, regardless of the purpose of their

one prime location

visit. This has earned the hotel the reputation of being a place of quality, style and dedicated service. This warm welcome at a prime location only a stone’s throw away from the upscale shops and trendy cafes of Kurfürstendamm and the department stores of Tauentzienstraße is truly exceptional.

Employer and employees work together to ensure guest satisfaction One of the exceptional features of the hotel is its ability to operate beyond the traditional concept associated with the industry.

The Steigenberger Hotel Group knows that

one of the keys to success is to have happy employees. “In order to reach and maintain our high level of service we, as an employer, are investing in our employees. Our guests

would not be satisfied with our services if our employees were not enthusiastic. We have succeeded in combining our guests’ needs with the needs of our employees. In

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Discover Germany | Hotel of the Month | Steigenberger Hotel Group

The hotel takes pride in offering modern and fresh accommodation and was recently renovated in order to provide visitors with the best stay possible.

both instances, it is all about perception and recognition,”says Schulze.

Environment at the heart of daily running “As a hotel, we are very aware of the fact that all our actions have an impact on the environment. When I took the position as director of the Steigenberger Hotel in Berlin, I saw it as a personal mission and duty to ensure that we took responsibility and action towards helping the environment,” says Schulze, ensuring that quality and profit are not achieved to the detriment of the environment.

The hotel’s focus on being an environmentally friendly establishment has paid off.

“The hotel has been recognised as being environmentally friendly and has even won an award for this. This reflects our efforts and the fact that we have more than just good ideas. We have implemented our vision,” says Schulze.

Service and dining Guests at the Steigenberger Hotel in Berlin can expect first-class service with attention

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to all their needs. ”We strive to fulfil our guests' every need. As such we have 24hour room service, supported by a laidback approach focused on excellence,” says Schulze. The hotel also has a restaurant, run by top chef Bernd Winkler, who ensures that guests can enjoy traditional food with a modern twist.

The hotel takes pride in offering a modern and fresh stay and was recently renovated in order to provide visitors with free Wi-Fi internet access, tea and coffee in the rooms, and wonderfully comfortable beds that guarantee you a good night's sleep and will give you the rest you need to take on the treats that Berlin has to offer. Book a stay at the Steigenberger Hotel Berlin to give your visit to this unique city the style and comfort it deserves. www.steigenberger.com/en/berlin

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SAGE Restaurant – A journey into European classics in an extraordinary setting Next time you are in Berlin, stop by the renowned SAGE Restaurant. Be taken aback by mouth-watering European dishes and an atmosphere out of the ordinary, in which guests can experience a little piece of the Mediterranean in the urban beach area.

TEXT: ANNE LINE KAXRUD | PHOTOS: SAGE RESTAURANT

Restaurant of the Month

Since its opening in 2009, SAGE Restaurant has established a reputation for fabulous food, with a varied menu that includes classics like Wiener schnitzel and meaty steaks. While the food is always at the centre of attention,

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guests can expect a splendid location on the banks of the river Spree and an atmosphere that applies to all the senses. “The restaurant is chic, but feels rock 'n' roll,” booker and media contact Timo Hoppart says.

A chic restaurant on the riverbank Located on the banks of the river Spree in Berlin-Kreuzberg, the restaurant attracts

Discover Germany | Restaurant of the Month | SAGE Restaurant

business people and families alike to a food experience out of the ordinary. The restaurant is located in an old silk factory, and while many of the original features from the enormous brick building are still intact, it has also been given urban solutions, making it an interesting mix of old and new.

A quick search online confirms the impression that this is a place worth exploring in the German capital, with numerous favourable reviews from guests from every corner of the world. One guest notes that the restaurant “rockets into my top five dining experiences”, while others hail the restaurant’s “fabulous drinks in a trendy happening place”.

European classics at their best The restaurant itself describes its offerings as upscale and creative, with something on offer for every taste.The menu is largely influenced by European classics, and it is hardly a surprise that the Wiener schnitzel is a favourite year after year. “We can also tempt with fillet steaks, great pastas and pizzas, as well as some vegetarian dishes,” Hoppart says. For the more adventurous guests, it is worth checking out the oaksmoked salmon, or variations of pumpkin and poached fillet of veal with pretzel dumplings. However, as with most good restaurants, the menu changes often so there may be other delicious dishes on the plates next week.

Berlin is renowned for its coolness, and the competition for customers is fierce. SAGE Restaurant has, however, proved that it is one to watch, and it was recently noted as one of 50 restaurants in TeNeues’s guide Cool Restaurants Top of the World. The ranking is based on an unmistakable blend of culinary artistry, atmosphere and furnishings, the finest of ingredients and methods of preparation, as well as an absolutely extraordinary level of service.Thus, SAGE Restaurant has proved to be the perfect combination of extraordinary food and an atmosphere to relish.

Bring out the bikinis and shorts The restaurant offers suitable settings for everyone, whether you fancy a single cocktail in the bar or private dining in the more

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formal white room. Come in the summer and the restaurant has its own private beach for sun-hungry guests. Bring along bikinis and shorts and indulge in a Mediterranean experience with sand and palm trees while sipping on fresh cocktails and tucking into barbequed meat and vegetables. “The restaurant has a relaxed feel to it, and the owner himself welcomes guests in flip-flops at the entrance if he is in the right mood,”Hoppart says.

run the famous SAGE Club, located in an underground railway station. The place is a perfect spot for those who would like to let loose on the dance floor. “We are strongly connected to the nightlife scene, and you will feel this in every corner of the restaurant as well,” Hoppart notes. “We all love the freedom of art and music in Berlin, and in addition to the restaurant and the club, we have hosted numerous events, including open-air concerts for the Fête de la Musique and the festival on the Museumsinsel.”

Bring out the dancing shoes

www.sage-restaurant.de

It will probably not come as a surprise that the restaurant is linked to the city’s nightlife as the owners also

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Discover Germany | Attraction of the Month | The Brรถhan Museum

Discover Germany | Attraction of the Month | The Bröhan Museum

The Bröhan Museum – A journey through art history at its finest If you are looking to add more personality and depth than what your Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino cup can offer you to your next visit to a big city, then the Bröhan State Museum in Berlin should be at the top of your must-see list.

TEXT: ADELINA IBISHI | PHOTOS: THE BRÖHAN MUSEUM

The museum is located by Berlin’s biggest and most famous palace, Charlottenburg Palace, only fifteen minutes away from the most urban area of the capital core. Since 1983, visitors have been attracted to the museum because of its special portrayal of functionalist art and design from the late 19th century, focusing especially on French and German art deco and art nouveau, the result of technology, geometry and modern art.

Attraction of the Month

Within the walls of the neoclassical building, the museum represents various aspects of the finest decorative pieces Above: Hans Baluschek, Families can make coffee here, 1895, gouache on cardboard

Opposite page from left to right: Karl Hagemeister, Poppy Field, 1875, gouache on board; Walter Leistikow, Grunewaldsee or Schlachtensee, c. 1900, oil on canvas;

Right: Vase with moth, Emile Gallé, Nancy, c. 1898, glass; Vase with poppies, Daum Frères & Cie, Nancy, c. 1897, glass

from its time, with everything from furniture and paintings to glassware, metal ware and ceramics. The collections are divided into two main areas, crafts and fine arts, and each of the three floors in the museum has its own category. “Having a mix of everything has turned out to be our trademark,” says the museum’s publicist, Corinna Päpke. “Although we have a real thread following all the pieces, they remain varied at the same time.”

Colours, abstracts and Jugendstil The ground floor focuses on interior design and is made up of several different rooms, each room with characteristic furniture forming different styles from the turn of the century up to the thirties. Each room is a mix of decorative art, paintings, sculpture and furniture, where each form of artistic expression bears a weight of its own.

The first floor is a picture gallery, with pictures and paintings in typical functionalist style, with bright colours and abstract domination. Since December 1998, the museum has been able to present parts of its rich collection of paintings, drawings and pastels in a picture gallery within newly acquired show rooms. To offer the best possible experience for visitors, each room is designed with a different ambience.

Apart from the two rooms that are dedicated to the Belgian art nouveau

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 37

Discover Germany | Attraction of the Month | The Bröhan Museum

within modern art, his favourite genre. His finished collection was officially established in 1973, but he continued adding to it until he died in 2000. Because of the cultural tribute Bröhan made to Germany, the Bröhan Museum is seen as one of the country’s greatest national prides. To make the visitors as happy as possible, the museum offers free entrance once every month and special programmes for families, children and pupils.

artist Henry van de Velde and the Vienna Secession artist Josef Hoffmann, the third floor is a spacious hall used for special exhibitions, lectures and cultural events chosen by experts to make sure that they go in style with the rest of the museum.

Plans for 2013 “We work hard to find those exact artists and pieces we think will complement the museum,” Päpke says.

The museum has approximately three exhibitions every year and can already reveal some of their plans for 2013. Avantgarde, focusing on Jewish ceramicists in Germany, will be open from February to May, and Porcelain, from the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin, from September to December. “We are very excited about the new year, and I think people will find the exhibitions very interesting,” Päpke says.

Fun for the entire family Getting to the museum is easy as all forms of public transport pass by frequently.

Although going to a museum like this might seem more appealing for those with a special interest in art history, the staff at Bröhan Museum encourage everyone to come and take a look; they guarantee that there is something on offer for everyone, no matter what age.

The entry fee is dependent on age and what type of visit you are looking for, but normal entry is 6€ for adults and free for children under 18.

The museum also offers guided tours by professionally trained staff and group visits, with reduced package prices.

The museum shines light on the philosophy and art style “Jugendstil”, which means “youth style” in German and was named after the magazine Jugend which helped develop and front the movement when it began. The museum follows the principle of the presentation of art pieces as chamber ensembles, and the collections illustrate different artistic expressions.

www.broehan-museum.de

National pride The museum was founded by the art collector Karl Bröhan, who dedicated his life to exploring and making finds

38 | Issue 1 | February 2013

Above: Danseuse au bracelet, Agathon Léonard, Paris, c. 1900, bronze Right: The Bröhan Museum

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Discover Germany | Business | Key Note

Germany continues to be a hugely important market for British companies TEXT: ULRICH HOPPE, DIRECTOR GENERAL AT GERMAN-BRITISH CHAMBER OF INDUSTRY & COMMERCE

International trade is vital for future economic growth. Therefore, we need to encourage further market liberalisation so that we can all do more business with each other. The creation of the single European market over the last twenty years has been an unparalleled success story, and, as Europeans, we need to build on this. The focus needs to lie on opening up markets, especially for services where more still needs to be done.

Looking at the UK, we find that the country exports slightly more to the US than Germany. Nevertheless, Germany is its largest trading partner, because Germany has exported more to the UK than the other way round for many decades. To some extent, this is a sign of the strength of the German economy – in particular in fields such as engineering and the automotive sector. There are, however, many opportunities for British companies to do business in Germany which, for various reasons, often go untapped, and the German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce would like to encourage UK businesses to take a closer look at the continent’s largest economy. Independent of the worrying rhetoric of some British politicians, the economic future of the UK is, and always will be, closely intertwined with Europe. Of course, the BRIC countries offer huge potential, but this is often better exploited by larger companies, which are generally better able to bear the risks of operating in more uncertain environments. The success of many SMEs, which form the engine of the economy, especially in terms of employment, will generally result from entering markets closer to home.

Ulrich Hoppe, Director General at German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce

IT services, life sciences, professional services as well as the creative industries are just a few examples of fields where British companies will be able to compete successfully in the German market. Of course, entering a mature market takes time and needs careful preparation.The German-British Cham-

ber of Industry & Commerce, together with its network of member firms, is ready to help and support any company in its endeavours: feel free to contact us. grossbritannien.ahk.de/en

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 41

Discover Germany | Business | Feature

42 | Issue 1 | February 2013

Discover Germany | Business | Feature

A New Industrial Revolution in Europe In early 2013, the European countries will meet again to try to reach a consensus on the European Union budget for 2014-2020, following a failed summit in November 2012. European Commission Vice President Antonio Tajani is one of those arguing strongly that this budget should help fund a new industrial revolution involving innovative technologies to power the EU out of the economic slump. Here we examine the EC’s strategy for reversing the industrial decline and see how, in Germany’s capital city, innovative organizations and individuals are already showing the way forward.

TEXT: STEPHEN CLEMENTS | PHOTOS: EUROPEAN COMMISSION

At a press conference in 2012, Tajani, EC Commissioner in charge of Industry and Entrepreneurship, outlined his approach to tackling the major problems confronting the European Union:

as a crucial driver of productivity, innovation, research and job creation; for example, each new job in the manufacturing sector produces a corresponding one in services.

Strategy for Growth

“Winston Churchill said: The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. I am an optimist.Today's economic crisis and other societal issues are formidable challenges.

They should also be seen as the opportunity for a positive change, as the chance to attract new demand for goods and services and to create more jobs.”

Industry is in decline through market uncertainty, lack of demand and financing problems, but nevertheless remains a dominant element in the EU economy, currently providing 75% of EU exports and 16% of overall EU GDP. Tajani is convinced that this can increase to 20% of GDP by 2020 through a rebuilding of confidence and a corresponding influx of new investment to strengthen industrial growth and performance. This is fundamental to European regeneration because industry is recognised

The EC’s flagship initiative Innovation Union details its plans to provide, by 2020, “more jobs, improved lives, better society” through action on employment, innovation, education, social inclusion and climate/energy. From 2014 to 2020 this will be implemented by the new EU programme for research and innovation, Horizon 2020, which has a proposed budget of €80 billion that some MEPs are vehemently arguing should be increased.

Fundamental to Horizon 2020 is the promotion and development of Key Enabling Technologies, a sector in which Europe is already a leading player and which the EC envisages in the vanguard of the new industrial revolution. The global market for these technologies is predicted to grow from its present €646 billion to over €1 trillion by 2015, representing an increase of over 54% or more than 8% of the EU’s

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 43

Discover Germany | Business | Feature

European Commission Vice President Antonio Tajani

the Berlin Senate, with its marketing campaign motto “Be Berlin”, the plan aims to boost inward investment and business startups, reinforcing the industrial expansion that has been evident ever since the immense structural transformation in the 1990s.

GDP. A concomitant rise in high-quality jobs is also anticipated so that in nanotechnology industries alone EU jobs are predicted to increase from 160,000 in 2008 to 400,000 by 2015. The six categories of KETs are: -

Micro- and nanoelectronics Advanced materials Industrial biotechnology Photonics Nanotechnology Advanced manufacturing systems

Recognizing Individual Excellence The 2012 joint European Institute of Innovation and Technology and Academic Enterprise Awards bolstered these policy objectives of the EU, giving top honours to start-ups and spin-outs, rewarding entrepreneurship in the new sectors. Amongst those receiving plaudits were: - Naked Energy, developers of solar thermal technologies - EVO Electric for their breakthrough in electric car technologies - Endomagnetics, creators of an ultrasensitive medical-use probe utilizing nanotechnology - Trifense, an intelligent network

44 | Issue 1 | February 2013

security company that uses self-learning technology to automatically detect potential cyber attacks Trifense, which began as an innovative research project at the Technical University of Berlin, is a notable example of the new breed of spin-out companies. Commercial support and business acumen were allied to academic expertise, and for Trifense’s managing director and co-founder, Patrick Duessel, this was vital for the development of their highly complex product. Indeed, the TU Berlin has a dedicated Centre for Entrepreneurship which has created an annual average of thirty-three start-up companies over the last four years, all founded by students and researchers.

The German capital region Berlin-Brandenburg has attained a pivotal role in the promotion of economy and science, innovation management, research and technological development that create a regional, national and international impact. Commercial infrastructure for this is provided by a wide range of initiatives and state institutions, such as the Investment Bank Berlin, the Berlin Chamber of Commerce and Berlin Partner GmbH, all under the aegis of an Industrial Master Plan for 2010-2020. Supervised by

Of course, venture capital and other private sector investment have played a substantial role too in Berlin’s resurgence. There are major capital projects like the new €3 billion international airport, but in addition, the city is experiencing an influx of small technology companies along with global names like Twitter, Mozilla and Google, which have recently established themselves in the capital. Google moreover has pledged €1 million to the Factory, a huge campus-style office complex in the central district. This is a development by Berlin angel and seed financing firm JMES Investments with partners s+p Real Estate and is due for completion in early 2013. Designed to be a hub for clusters of technology start-ups and associated enterprises, the building will also contain leisure facilities such as a gym, sauna, art gallery, and, constructed on the site of the old Oswald Brewery, it will even have a beer garden.

This exemplary project is being perceived as emblematic of the opportunities for change and growth represented by innovative new technologies and entrepreneurship. So too then, the city of Berlin, by creating new demand for its products and services and increasing investor confidence in its industries, is clearly showing how Commissioner Tajani’s new industrial revolution in Europe may in reality be achieved.

For more information, please contact: Berlin Chamber of Commerce, www.ihk-berlin.de Start-up support, www.berlin-partner.de British Chamber of Commerce in Germany, www.bccg.de European Commission Directorate General Enterprise and Industry, www.ec.europa.eu/enterprise European Institute of Innovation and Technology, www.eit.europa.eu

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Setting up in Business or Moving to the UK? Find out how English law affects you with our practical new column TEXT: NIA KAJASTIE | PHOTOS: SANNA HALMEKOSKI AND THOMAS ERSKIN

Discover Germany introduces its new law columnist, German Rechtsanwalt and English solicitor, and the founder and managing director of Londonbased Klein Solicitors, Gregor Kleinknecht LLM MCIArb. Whether the topic is setting up in business in the UK or moving from Germany to the UK for the first time, there are numerous legal issues, both practical and complex, that need to be understood to make the right decisions for a successful future. While the German and English legal systems are nowadays both influenced by common European rules and regulations, there remain fundamental differences, both in approach and substance, as Gregor Kleinknecht points out.

In his upcoming columns, Kleinknecht will delve into these topics, answering questions such as “When people move to the UK, what happens to the validity of a will that you may have made in Germany?”and “Do you need a new will for property acquired in the UK?”, as well as examining the issue of acquiring property through a company as opposed to buying or selling the actual house – previously a popular way of avoiding stamp duty land tax, but a tax loophole that has recently been all but closed.

Klein Solicitors consists of (from L-R) Gregor Kleinknecht (Managing Director), Petra Williams-Lescht (Trainee Solicitor), Janet Klin (Rechtsreferendarin) and Anna O'Connell (Solicitor) (not pictured).

46 | Issue 1 | February 2013

Discover Germany | Business | Profile

Kleinknecht will also be able to shed light on cultural differences between the two countries when it comes to practical legal issues. “For example, something that always astonishes German clients is the length of English law contracts. If you buy a company here, it is not unusual that the contract and supporting documentation is several hundred pages long,” Kleinknecht laughs.“This goes back to the fact that in Germany you will have recourse to the company and commercial codes and other legislation to fill gaps in the contract, whereas here if it’s not in the contract, it doesn’t apply; everything has to be covered in much more detail. So that’s one example of a cultural difference that people need to overcome.”

London calling Gregor Kleinknecht initially studied undergraduate law at universities in Cologne, Geneva and Freiburg, before coming to London to do his master’s degree at LSE. Having completed part of his legal training at a large city law firm in London, he then decided to build his career here.

“I very much enjoyed London, the cosmopolitan side of it, and obviously if you are interested in international legal practice, international commerce and international trade, then London is still probably the leading place in the world to come to and work.”

With this in mind, Kleinknecht stayed on after qualifying as a lawyer in Germany and then as an English solicitor. He initially worked in commercial litigation on complex high-value international cases. After four years he joined another city firm, which had a large international network, including offices across Germany and in central and eastern Europe.

“They were specifically looking for somebody who combined the civil and common law backgrounds to take the role of bridging the gap between civil law jurisdictions, the offices in Germany and eastern Europe, with the English common law practice, thus helping with the integration of the way lawyers worked across these offices. I continued to work in commercial litigation and increasingly developed an expertise in ar-

bitration, which is effectively resolving disputes outside of the state court system and through the appointment of arbitrators.

The interesting thing about that is that it is very conducive for resolving international disputes because it takes the parties away from the court system of any particular country and gives them the ability to resolve their differences by reference to an internationally recognised procedure.”

In 2002, Kleinknecht moved on again, this time to an American law firm to help establish a dispute resolution practice for their new London office.

“I really enjoyed my time there because we were effectively starting up a new business, but also because I had the opportunity to expand my practice into intellectual property law.

“When I left that firm by the end of 2006, I took a step back to have a look at the options for developing my legal career further, which gave birth to the idea of setting up a new law firm from scratch. All of my clients were very supportive of the idea because they would continue to get the same level of expertise but combined with a more personal service and at a more reasonable cost.”

A small firm in a big city In February 2007, Gregor Kleinknecht set up Klein Solicitors, a dynamic and independent legal boutique located in Mayfair in the West End of London. He has not looked back since and says that the only regret he has is not to have done it earlier.

The practice undertakes both transactional and dispute resolution work, working with a diverse UK and international client base and covering a wide range of industry sectors. In addition to a lot of high-profile litigation work, the boutique firm has built an extensive practice working on intellectual property cases, and art and cultural heritage law, which is unusual for a small practice of four lawyers.

“In the litigation field, for example, we have just done a banking case, a jurisdictional dispute about a $1.2 billion claim, which we won in the Commercial Court and again in the Court of Appeal against one of the top

law firms in the city; it’s illustrative of the way we work,”Kleinknecht says.

“Then there’s also the transactional side to the practice; it’s linked predominantly to the fact that I am German, and while German businesses and individuals are not our biggest client base, they certainly play a role. We are listed with the German Embassy and the German-British Chamber of Commerce as providing English law advice to German clients, and we deal a lot with setting up German companies for doing business in the UK. “And companies of course have people, so there has always been a private client side to the practice as well. Something that’s been very topical is, for example, prenuptial agreements because they have traditionally been given very different effect in Germany and the UK, although this has recently begun to change.”

The size of the firm offers another added benefit for their continental European clients, who are used to dealing with smaller law firms back at home.“It’s more accessible and cost-effective. That’s why, I guess, we do well with continental European clients,”Kleinknecht adds. www.kleinsolicitors.com

Gregor Kleinknecht LLM MCIArb is a German Rechtsanwalt and English solicitor, and the founder and managing director of Klein Solicitors, a successful independent boutique law firm in Mayfair in the West End of London (Klein Solicitors, 42 Brook Street, London W1K 5DB, E-mail: gk@kleinsolicitors.com, www.kleinsolicitors.com).

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 47

Georg Baselitz, "Ostbraut (Foto 1974)", 2010, oil on canvas, 300 x 250 cm, Courtesy of Contemporary Fine Arts, Berlin. Photo: Jochen Littkemann

Discover Germany | Culture | German Artists Strike Gold

Contemporary German Artists Strike Gold TEXT: JULIE GULDBRANDSEN

Startling world artist records were set at the post-war and contemporary art auctions in London late last year.

A painting by the renowned German artist Gerhard Richter, Abstraktes Bild (809-4) from 1994, was sold for the astonishing sum of over £21 million, which also marked a new record price for the work of any living artist. While Richter takes the prize as the heavyweight champion of the contemporary art market, there is currently a remarkably strong auction presence of other reputable German talents such as Anselm Kiefer and Martin Kippenberger.This obviously reflects a strong interest in German art, but what are these artists all about and why are they so coveted?

Martin Kippenberger – frontman of a ‘bad boy’ generation of younger German artists who rose to fame in the wake of the German neo-expressionists – is another topprice-attracting artist. His self-portrait Untitled recently sold for £3.2 million.

Kippenberger and his fellows’ provocative and jocular actions gave rise to the term Junge Wilde (wild young ones).The informal group, which included Albert Oehlen, another artist strongly represented at the auctions, became almost as notorious for their public hard-drinking party spirit as for their work. Besides his controversial public persona, Kippenberger is recognised for his prolific and stylistically varied output which refuses classification. Working in multiple

media, such as painting, sculpture and installation, he borrowed from everywhere and brought styles and processes into conversation with each other in an attempt to deconstruct them. In this way he was poking fun at the art world and himself as an artist. Initially, this critical assessment was very much aimed at the neo-expressionists, who were very much in vogue in Germany in the 1970s and 80s. Oehlen and Kippenberger were basically reacting to the uncompromising seriousness of the very ‘painterly’and romantic neo-expressionists who seemed to have a very confident belief in the emancipating power of art. Interestingly, both of these informal movements, which seem to be in critical dialogue with each other, are at the forefront of the contemporary art market today.

Since the decline of expressionism in the 1920s, aspects of it have been practiced and revived profusely. By the 1970s Georg Baselitz and Anselm Kiefer were among some of the most prominent artists to lead the revival of expressionist painting. At a time when minimalism, conceptualism and dematerialisation took centre stage in the art world, there was a “perceived death of painting”. As ringleader of the loose-knit group that came to be known as the Neue Wilde (new wild ones), Baselitz brought renewed interest to painting with his very expressionistic figurative imagery mixed with abstraction. The Neue Wilde were inspired by early expressionist artists, such as Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and Edvard

Munch, and a range of other earlier styles, such as action painting and Picasso’s quasiabstract figurations. In Germany, this return seems to have been connected with a wider societal interest in coming to terms with the country’s past. Both Kiefer and Baselitz drew heavily on history and myth in their work, particularly tabooed German icons and clichés, as part of a narrative that addressed the implications of the Second World War for modern German culture and thinking.The Neue Wilde felt that there had been a loss of connection to history and aspired to reconstruct “meaning and reality via storytelling in images”, as historian Fredric Jameson put it.

Both Baselitz and Kiefer are among the artists exceedingly sought after at auction, and they have both had major shows at prestigious galleries in London lately – something that usually boosts an artist’s auction value.

Gerhard Richter's career started with more pop-arty paintings in the 1960s. Like Sigmar Polke, another much desired artist, Richter was altering the course of American pop art, though it was informed by the mood of post-war Germany, and it was a lot darker, more existentially orientated.

Richter's oeuvre is difficult to pin down and classify: it has gone through diverse phases. However, a significant thread through his varied career is a delicate tension between abstraction and figuration.

He became critically acclaimed for his hall-

Issue 1 | February 2013 | 49

Left: Sigmar Polke, Nierenform, 1969, Dispersion on fabric, 90 x 75 cm.

perts emphasise that the wealth of the super-rich will secure a continued upward curve, but it will be for the top end of the market.

Richter, the most expensive living artist, is indisputably a great artist, and his recordsetting work, which was described by the auction house Sotheby’s as a "masterpiece of calculated chaos", is an amazing piece. Is it worth its price? The art market has decided that it is; what you think might be a whole other story.

Below: "Dolores",1986, Oil on canvas, 162 x 130 cm © 2013 Georg Baselitz

mark blurred photo-based paintings such as October 17, 1977, but it is now his abstractions, which appear throughout his oeuvre, that take home the top prices, particularly the ones he created in the 90s.

Like the Neue and Junge Wilde, Richter embraced and developed figurative painting, and abstraction has always been a key element to him as well.

The record-setting Richter painting mentioned earlier was from the collection of musician Eric Clapton. He originally bought the painting for £2 million in 2001, earning him approximately 25% return each year for 11 years. The question on everyone’s lips now is: Can the contemporary art market keep climbing or will it hit a roof, as has been the case everywhere else? Most ex-

50 | Issue 1 | February 2013

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Electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk perform in London PHOTO: KRAFTWERK (MOMA 2012); PHOTO + WORLDWIDE 2012 COPYRIGHT: PETER BOETTCHER / KRAFTWERK

Revolutionary German electronic music act and project Kraftwerk is playing eight live performances in Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall between 6-14 February. These will be their first performances in London since 2004.

The performances, titled KRAFTWERK THE CATALOGUE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8, explore the group’s sonic and visual experiments in chronological order and include eight classic pieces from across their distinguished repertoire with spectacular 3D visualisations and effects.

Combining sound and images, the performances showcase nearly 40 years of musical and technical innovation, including new improvisations, 3D projections and animation. Starting with Autobahn, each night covers one of Kraftwerk’s studio albums in full, appearing in order of their

52 | Issue 1 | February 2013

release - Autobahn (1974), Radio-Activity (1975), Trans Europe Express (1977), The Man-Machine (1978), Computer World (1981), Techno Pop (1986), The Mix (1991) and Tour de France (2003) - alongside additional compositions from their back catalogue.

techniques and computerised rhythms, have had a lasting effect on a range of music genres all around the world.Their use of robotics and other technical innovations in live performance illustrates Kraftwerk’s belief in the respective contributions of both man and machine in creating art.

The Kraftwerk project was created by Ralf Hütter and Florian Schneider in 1970 at their electronic Kling Klang Studio in Düsseldorf, Germany. They quickly achieved international recognition and praise for their electro“sound paintings”and musical experimentation with tapes and synthesizers.

“As a former power station, Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall is an ideal venue for Kraftwerk’s explorations of technology, energy and rhythm. Bringing together music, video and performance, these events will be true gesamtkunstwerk – a total work of art,” says Chris Dercon, director of Tate Modern.

With their visions of the future they created the soundtrack for the digital age. Their compositions, using innovative looping

www.tate.org.uk/kraftwerk

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Discover Germany | Culture | Sport

Podolski and Mertesacker to face their countrymen German duo Lukas Podolski and Per Mertesacker will go head to head with their teammates from the German national team when Arsenal hosts Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium on 19 February.

TEXT: MAGNUS NYGREN SYVERSEN | PHOTO: ALLAN BETH, DREAMSTIME.COM

Arsenal is set to face Bayern Munich in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League, and the Gunners will have quite the challenge on their hands when the German great visits the Emirates for the first of two legs.

With eight Bundesliga championships in the last twelve years, and winning the Champions League in 2001, Bayern Munich definitely has the more impressive pedigree of the two teams. Arsenal still sits

54 | Issue 1 | February 2013

on two Premier League trophies since the turn of the millennium and has yet to lift the Champions League trophy.

The game will be a big one for Arsenal centre back Per Mertesacker and striker Lukas Podolski. The Gunners duo will face their teammates from the German national team in Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, attacking midfielder Thomas Müller and, of course, full back Phillipp Lahm, who captains both Bayern Munich and Germany.

Podolski, who has a past with Bayern Munich, playing 71 games over three seasons for the Bavarians from 2006 to 2009, expects a tight game at the Emirates. He was quoted telling UEFA.com that Bayern has “a very good team with big players”, but the German striker still feels confident of Arsenal’s chance to grab a win.“There are two matches, one at home, one away. Both teams have the chance to win,” he told UEFA.com.

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CONTEMPORARY GERMAN ARTISTS STRIKE GOLD

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A NEW INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION IN EUROPE

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