On the last day of the year, how about escaping Berlin’s grey sky and taking refuge on an island hidden deep in your mind? The Sammlung Scharf-Gerstenberg in Berlin invites us on exactly this journey with its newly opened (starting 19 December) enchanting exhibition: “Possibilities of an Island.”
This exhibition is not merely an art selection; it is the passionate story of a family who escaped the chaotic world to take refuge in the safe harbours of art.
The world can sometimes be too noisy and exhausting. At this point, the exhibition reminds us how vital “islands” are. But the islands here are not geographical; they are those special refuges we find in our minds, in our homes, or in front of a work of art.
Organised in honour of the 100th birthdays of Dieter and Hilde Scharf, the exhibition sheds light on three generations of the family’s collecting adventure. Beginning with Otto Gerstenberg and extending to their granddaughter Julietta Scharf, this passion presents a world woven entirely with personal aesthetic criteria, far from public responsibilities.
A Journey Beyond Surrealism
The exhibition pushes the boundaries of Surrealism—the cornerstone of the collection—and offers a much broader perspective. The moment you step through the door, you are greeted by the sculptures of Swiss artist Kavata Mbiti, built on contrasts:
“Possibilities of an Island I”: With its fluid, dream-like forms, it symbolises the birth of an island.
“Keel”: Black, sharp, and menacing; reminiscent of shark fins circling an island.
This contrast summarises the spirit of the exhibition: danger and salvation, reality and fantasy always side by side.
Twelve Sections, One Hundred and Fifty Works
The exhibition consists of 12 thematic sections exploring ways to resist the impositions of daily life—whether an idyllic escape, a retreat into a fantasy world, or an ironic attitude that mocks death…
Who will you encounter in the exhibition?
Classic Masters: Alfred Sisley, Auguste Renoir.
Giants of Modernism: Egon Schiele, Max Beckmann, Hannah Höch.
Artists of Dark Fantasy: Alfred Kubin, Léon Spilliaert, and Unica Zürn.
Visitor Notes
The exhibition continues until 3 May 2026. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your visit:
Venue: Sammlung Scharf-Gerstenberg, Berlin.
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 11:00 – 18:00 (The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays).
New Year’s Note: Today (31 December), opening hours may have changed; I recommend checking your ticket online before visiting.
A Note from Apartment No: 26
This exhibition is designed for those who want to look at art not just to “view” it, but to “get lost” within it. Feeling the unique, free spirit of private collections can be particularly inspiring.
