The Half King Series

The Half King was a legendary bar on West 23rd Street in New York City, co-owned by writers Sebastian Junger and Scott Anderson, and filmmaker Nanette Burstein. For almost a decade, the bar hosted a photography series — The Half King Series — under the curation of New York-based curator and writer Anna Van Lenten, who exhibited exceptional documentary and fine art photography, while also gathering audiences in conversation and debate about the work on view. For nearly a decade, the original Half King Series, was more than just an art exhibition – it was a platform for deep conversations about global issues.

With Anna as co-curator and consultant, Zeitgeist Zentrum aims to bring the series back to life in Berlin and continue its legacy. Our mission is to open conversations, challenge perceptions, and inspire action. We will showcase six international documentary photographers and engage in meaningful discussions about the issues illuminated in their work - ranging from the lost war on cocaine to the new indigenous identity in North Ecuador.

This isn't about aesthetics – it's about war, refugees, environmental destruction, and human rights. It's about confronting injustice and amplifying the voices of those who've witnessed these crises firsthand. We want to provide a platform for real dialogue, where you can ask hard questions and connect with the artists.

Half King Fundraiser

Our goal at Zeitgeist Zentrum is to highlight social and environmental issues through live events focused on meaningful images whilst challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions. This is why we, Phuong and Hung, decided to revive the Half King Photography Series in Berlin.

With Berlin’s cultural funding being slashed, we as independent initiatives like Zeitgeist Zentrum are highly relying on community support and financial help. This is why we have launched a fundraiser. Your donation and attendance will help us bring international artists to Berlin, ensuring their voices remain heard while keeping this work bold, uncompromised, and urgent.

OPENING

IN MY ROOM

Youth between hope and fear

Vernissage: Saturday 01 March 2025
Artists: Feli & Pepita
Moderation: Igor Mitchnik (Austausch e.V.)
Book launch, open discussion with the artists, followed by a performance & DJ set by @disco.robics.

The artist duo explore childhood, adolescence, and identity. Their series IN MY ROOM offers a powerful glimpse into the perspectives of 38 young people from 10 Black Sea countries.

Reflection on the universal theme of growing up should be encouraged and help to promote understanding, empathy and appreciation for the diversity of young people around the world and be inspired by their strength, courage and zest for life.