EINE STADT WIRD BUNT. Exhibition Catalogue

When EINE STADT WIRD BUNT. was released in December 2021, it quickly became clear, that this is not another book on graffiti, but the most in depth researched, most complete and incredible illustrated chronicle about a city’s writing history so far. It was only a matter of time until the book’s awesome content attracted the attention of a museum. On the 1st November 2022 the Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte (Museum of Hamburg History) finally opened the accompanying exhibition.

But how to exhibit the essence of a 560-paged book that covers 20 years of Hamburg graffiti mainly in photos and texts? While the book’s big advantage was its four-member publisher team with an authentic past within the scene, the same applies for the exhibition. Mirko DAIM Reisser, Andreas CARIO Timm, Oliver DAVIS Nebel and Frank Petering curated the whole exhibition on their own and wisely chose the shown content.

Instead of filling walls with photos to which only visitors with a graffiti background can relate, there is a focus on original artifacts, which were part of their six year long research. From early 80s Breakdance magazine specials to original backpiece jackets you can find a well balanced variety of objects with highlights like SKENA’s blackbook, an original power distribution box with OZ tags from the 90s or an unbelievable attention to detail replicated room of a graffiti loving teenager.

The catalogue is a guide as well as an extension to the magnificent exhibition. Whether you’ve already been there, plan to see it or won’t make it: In addition to EINE STADT WIRD BUNT. we recommend the catalogue. It’s worth visiting the Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte between 2nd November 2022 and 31st July 2023. And don’t miss the app that features 55 important graffiti places in Hamburg, whose story you can find out about while exploring the city.

144 pages, 20 cm x 26 cm, softcover
Language: German / English
Release date: November 2021
Publisher: Mirko Reisser, Frank Petering, Andreas Timm, Oliver Nebel
Co-Editor: Stiftung Historische Museen Hamburg
Publishing house: Double-H Publishing