Zeughausmesse – Modern Craft 2025
- Mateus Witt
- Nov 19
- 4 min read
Where craftsmanship, art and social responsibility come together
From November 13th to 16th, 2025, the historic Kühlhaus Berlin Once again, the Zeughausmesse – Modern Craft , one of the most important exhibitions of its kind in Germany, became a meeting place for applied arts and contemporary crafts. It brought together over 90 artists and designers whose work impressively demonstrated how creative, diverse, and future-oriented modern crafts are.
In the unique atmosphere of the industrial cold storage facility, exhibitors presented objects that blend art and everyday life. From extraordinary jewelry to experimental ceramics, glasswork, textile art, and design objects, all the way to functional one-of-a-kind pieces: the fair offered a fascinating glimpse into the world of "tangible art"—art that can be used, experienced, and appreciated.
Elovate and Lions Club Berlin Preußen von Humboldt: A partnership for culture, ideas and social added value at Zeughausmesse
For us at Elovate , participating in the Zeughausmesse means far more than a purely business partnership. Together with the Lions Club Berlin – Preußen von Humboldt, we are committed to making art and creativity visible, fostering talent, and taking social responsibility seriously.
Throughout the entire fair, the Lions Club's sponsoring association treated visitors to a lovingly prepared catering service. All proceeds went to social education projects for children and young people in Berlin . This made the fair not only a cultural but also a social event that creates real added value.
A special Saturday: Music, encounters, and a space for inspiration
A highlight of our participation was Saturday, November 15th , when Elovate and the Lions Club hosted an exclusive champagne reception in the Kühlhaus. From 4:30 pm onwards, we opened the doors for an evening full of encounters, cultural experiences, and a festive atmosphere.
A particular highlight was the musical performance by singer Derya Atakan , who captivated the audience with a performance that effortlessly blended classical vocals with modern elements . She was accompanied by pianist Artschi Loyan , whose sensitivity and precise playing impressively underscored the atmosphere of the evening.
This combination of music, craftsmanship and community gave Saturday evening a special depth and made it an unforgettable experience for many guests.
Three prizes for outstanding achievements in arts and crafts
The Zeughausmesse 2025 awarded three prestigious prizes that recognize exceptional creative approaches and craftsmanship.
1st Prize for Applied Arts – Klingenstein-Zuschke Foundation (€5,000)
An award for exceptional craftsmanship and design quality as well as artistic brilliance.
2. Lions Elovate Award for Sustainable Art “NatureArt” (€1,500)
Sponsored by Elovate and the Lions Club Berlin – Preußen von Humboldt. This prize recognizes artists whose work focuses on sustainability and combines ecological materials, responsible production methods, and social competence.
3rd prize from R. Götze GmbH & Co. KG (750 €)
An award for up-and-coming talents who break new ground and pursue innovative approaches in arts and crafts.
The winner of the NatureArt Award: A role model for sustainable design
We are delighted to congratulate this year's winner of the Lions Elovate Award NatureArt 2025 :
🏆 Heinz-Jürgen Gerdes
Managing Director at Friesische Wollweberei GmbH & Co. KG (Project: Coastland Wool ).
His work combines traditional textile techniques with ecologically responsible materials and modern approaches. Coastland Wool impressively demonstrates how sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic quality can harmoniously coexist. Gerdes' approach exemplifies how craftsmanship not only creates aesthetic value but also strengthens environmental awareness and social responsibility.
FRESH TALENTS: Fostering the next generation
The FRESH TALENTS funding program also deserves special attention. Since 2023, it has supported young craftspeople, designers, and creatives with a maximum of five years of professional experience. With heavily discounted exhibition space, it offers them the opportunity to gain visibility and present their work to a wider audience.
Why we do this: Elovate's cultural vision
At Elovate, we are convinced that companies can have an impact not only economically, but also culturally. Art inspires, creates connections, and broadens perspectives. It strengthens communities and stimulates dialogues that significantly shape our society.
Our mission is to create spaces where ideas can grow, where creativity is fostered, and where responsible design becomes visible. The Zeughausmesse (Armory Fair) makes precisely that possible—and that's why it's both a pleasure and a priority for us to actively support it.
A weekend full of encounters, inspiration and cultural significance
The Zeughausmesse 2025 impressively demonstrated how powerfully craftsmanship, sustainability, music, and social impact can interact. Our thanks go to:
to all artists
our partners and supporters
the Lions Club Berlin – Prussia von Humboldt
to the guests of our Saturday event
and all visitors who have strengthened art and culture with their presence
We look forward to continuing down this path and shaping a future together where creativity and responsibility go hand in hand .
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