Opening Party: Shepard Fairey - Photo Synthesis
A night of art, conversations, punk rock and Shepard on the decks
Image credit: André the Giant has a Posse, 1989 © Shepard Fairey
Shepard Fairey is coming to Berlin – and we are opening his exhibition: in true Fotografiska style: with a party. Expect a night of art, live music, conversations, drinks and dj sets.
Berlin punk duo CAVA kick off the night with a concert, followed by an artist talk with Shepard Fairey and Sven Fortmann (Lodown Magazine). Together, they trace the evolution of street art from its rebellious origins on city walls to its digital future.
Later, Shepard himself spins the decks before Brooklyn-born Stimulus takes over Bar Verōnika for a late-night set.
And throughout the evening, you’ll be able to explore Photo Synthesis, Shepard Fairey’s new exhibition, featuring around 200 works.
Please note that only the corresponding Event + Party ticket allows access to both the concert and the talk. Photo Synthesis will be open until 1:30, while the other exhibitions close at 23:00.
ARTIST TALK
The future of Street Art – How Social Media and Commercial Forces Shape Street Art Today
Join us for a conversation with Shepard Fairey and Sven Fortmann as they dive into the evolving landscape of street art.
From its rebellious origins on city walls to its recognition in global galleries, street art has become one of the most dynamic forces in culture today. Fairey and Fortmann will reflect on their own creative journeys, the social and political impact of public art, and what lies ahead for a movement that continues to challenge, inspire, and transform communities worldwide. Together, they discuss what the future holds — how street art will adapt in the digital age, the role it will play in shaping public space and cultural identity, and the ways artists can preserve authenticity in a world increasingly shaped by commercialization.
About the Moderator: SVEN FORTMANN
Born and raised in Berlin, Sven Fortmann grew up on a steady diet of leftfield pop culture. With a background in graphic design and creative writing, he started as the music editor at renowned Lodown Magazine before taking over as the editor-in-chief a few years later.
He was a resident DJ at style-defining clubs such as WMF, Rio, and Watergate. Lately he co-hosted a show on KCRW and co-created a multidisciplinary platform for kids and youth literature. He still lives and works as a freelance author, creative consultant, and editor in Berlin.
CAVA
Berlin-based punk rock duo CAVA, consisting of guitarist and vocalist Peppi and drummer/vocalist Mela, are known for their short, explosive tracks and raw live energy. Their latest album, Powertrip, combines tight studio production with a wiry, unfiltered punk sound, delivering 14 tracks of high-voltage emotion and intensity. Songs like Crashing and Control explore themes of power, control, and personal and societal struggles, blending the personal with the political while maintaining their signature aggressive yet melodic style.
CAVA has established themselves as a driving force in Berlin’s FLINTA* music scene, challenging gender norms in rock music and inspiring a new generation of artists.
STIMULUS
STIMULUS is an artist, DJ, event curator, and creative from New York. The Brooklyn-born musician was discovered by Mark Ronson, who recorded and produced his first demo. Before signing his first record deal with Universal Music, he worked as a product developer and marketer for Gap Inc., Ralph Lauren, and Puma. Stimulus co-founded the dynamic creative platform Swim Good in Berlin and became one of the first artists ever featured on the popular show COLORS.