NACHBARINNEN(NEIGHBOURS) EXHIBITION
- madamstudio
- Apr 5
- 2 min read
“Neighbours” – A Tribute to Strength, Simplicity, and Solidarity Through Photography
Burg Eisenhardt, Bad Belzig | February 21–23 & February 28–March 2, 2025
When I opened the doors to my new exhibition “Neighbours” on February 21st, in the unique atmosphere of the vaulted cellar of Burg Eisenhardt in Bad Belzig, I never expected such an overwhelming wave of emotion, curiosity, and excitement.
This exhibition is more than a collection of black-and-white portraits. It’s an intimate tribute to the women of the surrounding villages, including Schmerwitz. Through my lens, I aimed to capture them just as they are: unfiltered, strong, sincere, full of humor, and deeply human.
Faces from Everyday LifeThese portraits are raw and honest. No makeup, no staged poses—just real women in their daily lives: mothers, artists, neighbors, and friends. Their faces tell stories of labor, love, resilience, and joy.As one of the participants, Diana Zimmermann from Klein Glien shared:“I’ve never seen myself like this. I usually don’t feel beautiful in photos, but Sareh truly captured my best side.”
The Story Behind the ExhibitionThanks to the support of organizations like MiCT, Sareh Photography, Coconat Space, and Exile Media Hub, a space was created that allowed for artistic expression, collaboration, and connection with the local community. This exhibition is the result of that cultural dialogue and creative exchange.
Just two months after arriving in Schmerwitz, I hosted a challenging exhibition of queer portraits—raw and nude. I thought it might be the end of our project. But instead, the local response was surprisingly warm and supportive.
Klaas Glenewinkel, director of MiCT, laughed as he recalled:“I thought this project would blow up in our faces—but people actually loved it.”That positive response was the spark that led to “Neighbours.”
A Different Perspective on AsylumThis project challenges stereotypes.Gabi Schrader from the organization SAM e.V. said:“We have to show that asylum doesn’t just mean conflict, police, or ambulances—it can also mean creativity, connection, and community.”
For many of the women featured in the photos, this was their first time participating in an art project.Karin Ahrenhold from Lehnsdorf shared:“I’ve exhibited my own work before, but being part of an artwork is something completely different. I never thought this could happen to me.”
🗓 Exhibition Dates & Times:
February 21–23, 2025 | 10:00–17:00
February 28–March 2, 2025 | 10:00–17:00📍 Burg Eisenhardt (castle cellar), Wittenberger Str. 14, 14806 Bad Belzig, Germany
With heartfelt thanks,Sareh Oveysi
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