The former working-class neighborhood of Berlin Schöneweide is changing rapidly.

The monumental industrial buildings are falling into disrepair or being converted into expensive studios. A four-lane road is set to run through Wuhlheide, the resident population is becoming more diverse, and Niederschöneweide is currently the most expensive place to live in Treptow-Köpenick. 
What do those who have lived here for decades have to say? How did people experience the collapse of large-scale industry after German reunification? How are they experiencing today’s changes?

Photographer Anna Pawlicki (Website | Instagram) asked them these questions and captured their portraits.
They tell about the lead in the soil and sledding on rubble. About soot on their shirts and the heady scent of lily-of-the-valley perfume. And they tell about eviction notices issued for the landlord’s personal use.

A „Schwatz“ is a fleeting moment of connection with someone who may have different views of the world than you do. For Ms. Schubert, “chatting” means meeting one another, reaching out to each other, and striking up a conversation.

The portraits explore the phenomenon that our memory is not a data repository, but a storyteller.
The exhibition, featuring new photographs by Anna Pawlicki and texts by the subjects, is on view at the Industriesalon, following the first show at Kiezclub KES in 2024.

Supported by:

Saturday, Nov 14, 2026, 4 — 7 pm
Opening Reception
with coffee.