G r e e t i n g s

des Bezirksamt Neukölln von Berlin,
zum 11. Kunst- und Kulturfestival 48 Stunden Neukölln

It's now a full dozen. What then, in 1999, began as a small festival of the arts conceived to show the rest of the city that Neukölln offers more than its reputation suggests, is now the largest independent festival of the arts in Berlin.

We are proud of this accomplishment, although credit is due to neither politicians nor to the administration, but, on the contrary, to the many artists whose work, dedication and creativity provide the event with its special character. Discovering the unexpected is the underlying idea for all involved, as well as the main attraction for visitors: one is confronted with art where one least expects it, in unexpected surroundings, locations and with unexpected frequency during these 48 hours.

“48 Stunden Neukölln“ are the time of year when the social, cultural and even spatial change currently taking place in Neukölln at an incredible pace becomes more apparent. Beyond all of the things we have to worry about when it comes to our area, the festival is evidence of lively urbanity, a bustling creative city – whether you look at Reuterplatz, Boddinstraße, Schillerpromenade, Böhmischen Platz or in the Emser Straße. We've been observing these developments carefully and the district council sees the necessity of supporting the arts scene and the artists themselves. Their role is crucial from our perspective, showing us possibilities for the future while continuing to see the need for more urban renewal here.

“48 Stunden Neukölln“ has a special focus in 2010, presented by history: as if in anticipation of what would later take place there at this time of year, the order of St. John established a village named Rixdorf on 26 June, 1360. This makes it possible to for us to celebrate the 650-year anniversary of Rixdorf / Neukölln this year at an auspicious time in the district.

Much is planned around Richardplatz, ranging from a celebratory concert to the traditional “Kiez International“ presentations and ecumenical religious worship. We are especially curious about what forms artists' reflections on the theme – “remembrance-forgetting-retention-loss“, the motto of this year's festival will take. As always, “48 Stunden Neukölln“ will take place at the most varied locations, frequently involving very different segments of the local population. The artists will provide impulses for thinking about the future, which is one of the main challenges facing political decision-makers.

Today, the manifold cultural offerings here, such as the Neuköllner Opera, Heimathafen, Galerie im Körnerpark, Gutshof Britz, as well as the active alternative arts scene, the array of activities undertaken by the Paul Hindemith music school and naturally, our main cultural event “48 Stunden Neukölln“ all relay the fact to people far beyond the area that Neukölln is a place of extensive cultural activity. That should stay the case. This year's focus on the district's history shows impressively that Neukölln has been able, for centuries, to deal with all manner of problems and conflicts in a way that allows for a bright future. Seizing the potential inherent in problems will surely prove the key in the future as it has in the past.

Heinz Buschkowsky
District Lord Mayor

Wolfgang Schimmang
District Councillor for Schools, Education, Culture and Sports