The Field

My photographic project "The Field" captures the unique atmosphere of Tempelhofer Feld, one of Berlin’s most iconic public spaces. Once an airport, it has transformed into a vast park that blends German history with the modern urban life.

This photographic work delves into the rich and multifaceted history of Tempelhofer Feld, one of Berlin’s most extraordinary and culturally significant public spaces. Once the site of Tempelhof Airport, one of the world’s first and most innovative airfields, it played a crucial role in aviation history and became a symbol of Berlin's post-war resilience, particularly during the Berlin Airlift of 1948-1949. Today, Tempelhofer Feld stands as a vast and open park in the heart of the city, where nature, urban life, and history converge in a singular, open landscape.

Through a series of carefully composed images, the work explores the unique juxtaposition between the park’s expansive emptiness and the human presence that animates it. Whether capturing the iconic runway stretching endlessly into the horizon, the fleeting moments of people jogging, cycling, or playing in the fields, or the subtle traces of the past that linger in the shadows, each photograph tells a story of a place in transition.

Tempelhofer Feld is not just a park; it is a living, breathing testament to Berlin's layered past, and its transformation from a site of technological innovation and wartime significance to a symbol of community, openness, and freedom. However, this uniqueness is under threat. With ongoing debates about its future and plans for development, there is a growing risk that this space could lose its original character and become overshadowed by commercial interests.

Through this artistic exploration, the work aims to preserve and reflect on the fragile relationship between history and modernity. It asks viewers to consider the importance of protecting such spaces, not only for their historical value but also for their role in shaping the collective identity of Berlin. The photographs challenge the viewer to recognize and reflect on the endangered character of Tempelhofer Feld, urging a deeper appreciation for the irreplaceable nature of this open, free space amidst the rapidly changing urban landscape of Berlin.

The Field by Daniel Seiffert

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