Jan Böhmermann's 'Die Möglichkeit der Unvernunft' Exhibition Concludes in Berlin After Drawing Over 30,000 Visitors

Successful Conclusion of Böhmermann's HKW-Takeover

Jan Böhmermann and Gruppe Royale's ambitious exhibition, 'Die Möglichkeit der Unvernunft' (The Possibility of Unreason), at the Haus der Kulturen der Welt (HKW) in Berlin, concluded on October 19, 2025, after a three-week run. The event, described as an 'HKW-Takeover,' drew an impressive attendance of over 30,000 people, transforming the iconic 'Pregnant Oyster' building into a dynamic space for art, satire, and critical discourse. The exhibition, which commenced on September 27, 2025, aimed to 'widen the corridors of the sayable, explorable, and representable,' according to Böhmermann.

Exhibition's Core Themes and Location

The choice of the HKW as the exhibition venue was deliberate, with Böhmermann emphasizing its symbolic significance. Located in the heart of Berlin, adjacent to key government buildings such as the Chancellery, Reichstag, and Schloss Bellevue, the HKW was originally a gift from the USA to West Berlin. Böhmermann stated that the political, social, and legal questions of the present should be addressed 'where they are negotiated,' viewing the building as a 'time capsule' to be opened and examined. The exhibition explored the relationship between politics and culture, prompting reflection on contemporary societal issues.

Diverse Program and Public Engagement

Beyond the central exhibition, 'Die Möglichkeit der Unvernunft' featured an extensive program of events, including:

• Concerts
• Shows
• TV recordings
• Performances
• Film screenings
• Discussion panels

Outdoor installations also engaged the public, with notable pieces such as an inflated Statue of Liberty partially submerged in water, a 'Scooter-Nest' made of e-scooters, and a telescope reportedly pointed towards the Chancellor's office. A memorial dedicated to Luise Nährlich, whose unsolved murder occurred at the site in 1966, was also part of the outdoor exhibits. Visitors were subject to a strict policy prohibiting photography and mobile phones within the exhibition rooms.

Controversies and Critical Reception

The exhibition was not without controversy. Prior to its opening, discussions arose following the cancellation of rapper Chefket's performance due to alleged antisemitic imagery, which subsequently led to other musical acts withdrawing from the program. This incident ignited broader debates surrounding freedom of speech, artistic expression, and the responsibilities of cultural institutions. Despite these challenges, the exhibition successfully stimulated public engagement and critical reflection on its themes.