What was going on in February?
In February, we dedicated ourselves to the theme of Africa from three perspectives. Central topics such as identity, tradition, culture, and visions of the future were the focus. We accompanied this by reading African fairy tales together and examining, at each session, the collages of Peter Beard, who combined photography, environmental activism, and diary art. The goal was to discover commonalities and establish a deeper connection to Africa. As always, we spent ample time outdoors and used only public transportation.
Schedule
Date 1: 01.02.2025Exhibition Contemporary African Photography at C/O Berlin Art and Photography: We visited the exhibition, which showcased works by over 20 artists. These artists challenged stereotypical representations, conveyed the diverse realities of Africa, and presented the continent as a center of a shared global future.
Date 2: (Note: Sunday event) 09.02.2025Africa – Cradle of Humanity at the James-Simon-Galerie: At the James-Simon-Galerie, we explored the history of humankind. Through archaeological findings, images, and written records, we discovered the role of Africa's natural diversity in human development and the adaptability of people over thousands of years.
Date 3: 22.02.2025Documentary AFRICA – THE ENCHANTED KINGDOM at the Zeiss-Großplanetarium: On 22.02.2025, we watched the 3D documentary AFRICA – THE ENCHANTED KINGDOM, which took us on an impressive journey through seven regions of Africa – from rainforests and deserts to the Victoria Falls. After the documentary, the children played at Helmholtzplatz.
Mind
Encouraging Critical Thinking: The exhibition Contemporary African Photography encouraged the children to question stereotypical representations and recognize Africa's diversity. They learned to view the continent from a new perspective and to connect it to global topics such as identity, culture, and the future.
Knowledge Expansion: The visit to the James-Simon-Galerie provided historical and scientific insights that deepened their understanding of human origins and Africa's significance in global history.
Creative Reflection: By viewing Peter Beard’s collages, the children found inspiration for their own creative expressions and learned how art and activism can work together.
Body
Movement and Relaxation: As always, we used public transportation and walked extensively. This not only promoted physical activity but also helped develop their sense of orientation in the city and mindfulness of their surroundings.
Play and Exploration: Before or after the events, we spent time in nearby parks and playgrounds. After visiting the exhibition at C/O Berlin, we explored Tiergarten, where the children played freely and moved around. Following the James-Simon-Galerie, we used the open spaces on Museum Island or the Lustgarten to play together and creatively reflect on what we had seen. Before or after the documentary at the Zeiss-Großplanetarium, we visited Prenzlauer Berg Park, where the children had time to play, run around, or relax.
Soul
Emotional Connection: African fairy tales, human stories in photography, and the animals in the documentary strengthened the children's empathy and allowed them to feel connected to the people and cultures of Africa.
Inspiration and Identity: Themes such as tradition and the future helped the children reflect on their own identity and discover commonalities with other cultures.
The goal was to accompany the children on this cultural educational journey, supporting them in broadening their perspectives and establishing a deeper connection to Africa and its diversity.
