Between Threshold and Future

The project "Between threshold and future" responds to the growing polarization in political debates on migration, asylum, and so-called "woke culture," as well as to the increasing influence of right-wing populist and discriminatory movements in Germany. It creates a platform where people who experience racism and/or antisemitism can come together to develop perspectives and visions for a nurturing life. The installation raises questions, encourages reflection on alternatives beyond the dichotomy of staying in or leaving Germany, and makes tangible how belonging and solidarity can be experienced despite societal tensions. 

This is followed by a lyrical reading by Ozan Zakariya Keskinkılıç, political scientist and poet. He will perform self-authored texts dealing with longing, belonging, and love, which connect thematically to the installation. The program includes both previously published poems and new, unpublished works. After the reading, there will be a short Q&A session.

After a brief set change, there will be a musical interlude by Lie Ning, accompanied on keyboard by Wolle. Their music creates a bittersweet space of hopeful melancholy—a timelessly modern sound that is gently energetic, heartfelt, and thoughtful, inviting listeners to pause and connect. 

The artistic work by Arin Ismail and Kim Diana Vu ​​​forms the centerpiece of the installation. It makes the themes of the installation perceptible both visually and sonically and was created based on impulses from a curation lab conducted with people who have experienced racism and/or antisemitism themselves. 

The evening’s catering will be provided by Ashlecker, a Berlin-based team that sees food as a way of bringing people together. Their cooking is heartfelt and homemade, blending flavours with memories and stories. For the event, they will serve a warming menu and their comforting winter teas – inviting moments of sharing, pause, and togetherness. The event is open to the general public, with a particular focus on BIPoC individuals who can identify with the themes of the installation and accompanying program. Additionally, the opening provides other artists, cultural practitioners, and institutions with insights into the conceptual, artistic, and societal aspects of the project. 

With this opening event, we aim to set the tone for the entire duration of the installation. The participating artists engage in their work with themes of longing, love, and belonging—subjects that are sensually perceptible and therefore resonate with a wide audience. 

Developed by curators Diane Izabiliza and Saida-Mahalia Saad, the project grew out of a desire to move beyond a sense of powerlessness and to connect with others. It exceeds the scope of a conventional exhibition, acting as a collective space of experience that connects aesthetic awareness with social urgency.  

The installation is sponsored by: Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion.

The supporting program is sponsored by: Federal Agency for Civic Education.