Arriving at E-WERK Luckenwalde, a former power station just south of Berlin, a sense of tranquility filled the air—a far cry from the upcoming performance art festival featuring the rebellious energy of Pussy Riot. E-WERK Luckenwalde, founded by artist Pablo Wendel and curator Helen Turner, has transformed this once dormant site into a hub of experimental culture.
Upon stepping into the renovated campus, which includes the power station, the town’s former swimming pool, and various pavilions, I was reminded of Wallpaper*’s earlier visit. A few years ago, writer Emma O’Kelly was told by Wendel that the project aimed to “offer art as a power supply.”
As I entered Stadtbad, the renovated swimming pool, I found myself in the luminous Bauhaus hall, a space that exuded a remarkable sense of serenity. The room was empty except for a pianist, their delicate notes filling the air. It was a familiar scene, one I felt compelled to capture on camera. However, as I finished recording my video, the musician’s music came to a halt, and they spoke.
Though the original article featured a quote, let us paint a picture with words instead. The musician paused their performance, their voice resonating through the hall, describing the transformative power of E-WERK Luckenwalde. They spoke of how this unique space allows art to transcend its traditional boundaries, becoming a fuel for creativity and exploration.
E-WERK Luckenwalde, with its innovative approach to showcasing art, exemplifies the potential for transformation that lies within abandoned spaces. By repurposing these structures and infusing them with the spirit of experimentation, artists and curators have created a haven for artistic expression and discovery. It is through projects such as this that the boundaries of what art can be are continuously pushed, offering visitors an opportunity to experience culture in a truly immersive and transformative way.