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prideArt Berlin
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Wintermarkt by prideART in a former prison

Art market on the first three Advent weekends in Berlin

In the middle of the quiet residential neighbourhood of Lichterfelde-West, the former women's prison opens its doors for a special exhibition. Against the impressive backdrop of the listed prison building, the prideArt Winter Art Market invites visitors into an unusual, historical ambience. Here you can discover and purchase artefacts from the prideART archive as well as studio works and immerse yourself in Berlin's queer art scene.

Creative art gifts from queer artists

Spread over three floors, you can visit the prison cells that have been converted into studios, talk directly to the queer artists and, of course, purchase an original on site.

The themes and motifs are as diverse as the queer scene itself, ranging from landscape paintings to mixed media, ceramics and illustrations to nudes. From small souvenirs to large sculptures, there is something for every taste and budget.

Individual pieces from the club archive

The Fundstücke winter art market is not a traditional Christmas event - but a very special opportunity to experience Berlin's queer art scene up close and perhaps discover a special Christmas present or two.

Over 250 individual pieces from the prideART association archive will be sold on the ground floor: from half-finished designs to framed collages and art photography. The unusual price system ranges from 2 to 100 euros - each work is marked with a coloured dot. "Everything must go!" is the motto of this last exhibition of the year - visitors can browse, discover and take away.

Estate of Hans Koischwitz

On the upper floors of the prison, the so-called "fillet pieces" await art-loving guests: here you will find works by current studio tenants. One highlight is definitely a first selection of male nudes by the Berlin artist Hans Koischwitz (1910-2002). In addition, remaining limited/signed prints by New York illustrator Robert W. Richards (deceased in 2015) from his last Berlin exhibition in 2014 will be on offer.

Anyone attending the vernissage or finissage can also look forward to a colourful supporting programme and one or two surprises - including talks and a community feeling.

Unconventional & diverse

Whether at the vernissage, the exhibition days on the Advent weekends or the finissage: this creative Christmas event in the former women's prison is more than just an art market. Fundstücke is a statement in favour of diversity and visibility. There is also mulled wine, Christmas treats, a friendly atmosphere and plenty of room for conversation - an unconventional experience for anyone who wants to get into the Christmas spirit away from the mainstream.

Highlights of the Pride Winter Market in the former women's prison

  • Works of art by queer artists to take home
  • Exhibition in the former prison - unique setting
  • Broad spectrum from painting and photography to mixed media
  • Personal dialogue with the artists
  • Vernissage & finissage with programme
     

Our tips for visiting the Pride Winter Market in the former women's prison

The Botanical Garden in Steglitz is just 10 minutes away by bike or 20 minutes by public transport. At Christmas time, it is transformed into a magical Christmas garden with countless lights and light installations. the Schlosspark Theatre or a walk through the villa district of Lichterfelde West are also worthwhile. If you still haven't had enough after that: There are charming cafés and restaurants in the surrounding area for a cosy end to the day.

Opening hours and admission prices

  • Date: 27 November to 14 December 2025
  • Opening hours:
    • Vernissage: 27 November, 6 pm - 10 pm
    • Exhibition days: 29/30 November, 6/7 December, 13 December, 3-6 pm each day
    • Finissage: 14 December, 3-8 pm
  • Admission is free

How to get there

The former women's prison in Lichterfelde is easy to reach by underground and bus. We recommend travelling by public transport.

  • Underground: U9 to Rathaus Steglitz, then continue by bus 285 to Bäkestraße
  • S-Bahn: S1 Lichterfelde West, then continue by bus M11 to Holbeinstraße or M85/285 to Bäkestraße