Memory Acts 

Reimagining German Immigration to Philadelphia

Since the 20th century the Germans of Philly have been a pivotal symbol for German immigration to the United States in Philadelphia. Its cultural activities and vivid community have shaped German-American exchange for over 100 years. On the first weekend of February the Germans of Philly present their first art exhibition, “Memory Acts”. In recent months three Philadelphia artists ― Janis Carter, Zoe Ron, and Manu Lock ― have explored the organization’s architecture, archives and historic collections of German literature. In reaction to their individual encounters, conversations and perspectives on German cultural heritage in Philadelphia, they have created site-specific installations and sonic performances that contextualize the organization’s complex history in relation to current challenges on identity, displacement and global migration.

Join us from February 5th to 7th for art, performance and conversation at the Germans of Philly Society.

Opening Hours: Fri 6-9pm, and Sat-Sun 12-6pm

Guided Tours: Fri 6pm & Sat 4pm (in English), Sat 2pm (in German)

The exhibition and events are free and open to the public. 

Members Preview

On Friday at 4:30pm we are delighted to invite members of the Germans of Philly Society to a preview of the artist’s visual and sonic creations. In a tour with the curator Tina P and the artists, we will explore German immigration to the United States between the past and the present, displacement and nostalgia. The preview is followed by an opening concert. In the Bach Auditorium Janis Carter will perform “The Walk”, an original composition inspired by songs of migration and immigration. Please RSVP by Jan. 26th to info@germansofphilly.com.