about/spaces
group photo from the workshop »Suhl-Nord - From our perspective«
about unofficial.pictures
Since 2016, unofficial.pictures has been bringing people from different backgrounds together through photography-based personal stories. The aim is to generate empathy and understanding across social groups and thus break down discrimination. We develop exhibitions, books, newspapers, and films, and empower others in workshops to use these approaches for themselves and their causes. The focus is on the inclusion and participation of people who are from social groups that are underrepresented in the media.
In December 2024, the association created a space for dialogue and transformative art in Suhl with the Community Art Center. In June 2025, unofficial.pictures e.V. opened a new exhibition and project space in Leipzig. In both spaces, people are encouraged to engage in dialogue about social issues through professional art and to initiate change. The association and the two institutions are coordinated by documentary photographers Rafael Brix (Suhl) and Frieder Bickhardt (Leipzig). In addition to volunteers, Toni Pohontsch (fundraising) and two federal volunteers are permanent members of the team.
Our programmes are aimed at young people and adults, primarily those interested in culture and politics. We place particular emphasis on the inclusion of underrepresented groups, especially migrants, BIPoC and queer people.
The association is financed by various municipal and national project grants as well as by foundations.
Community art center Suhl
With the Community Art Centre, we want to create a place for dialogue, art and change. Exhibitions, theatre performances, workshops and much more take place here – always on topics that are relevant to Suhl.
You can view the changing special exhibitions by appointment – or during events. School classes and other groups are also welcome by prior arrangement. We look forward to hearing from you!
You can reach us at Steinweg 28 via a few steps or by elevator using the doorbell at Am Burghof 8. Unfortunately, the restroom is not yet wheelchair accessible.
The establishment of the Community Art Center Suhl is supported by the Freudenberg Foundation.
unofficial.pictures leipzig
Our space at Ernst-Mey-Straße 7a in Leipzig has been open since 5 June 2025. Covering around 60 square metres with large, floor-to-ceiling windows, we have created a place that is more than just an exhibition space: it is a meeting place for art, politics and social issues.
The space functions as an laboratory for ideas and a working space, as a workshop venue and as a stage for exhibitions – even beyond Leipzig.
Our space in Leipzig is coordinated and curated by Frieder Bickhardt, documentary photographer and co-founder of unofficial.pictures.
Opening hours on weekdays 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and by arrangement
Please note that there is a staircase in the room.