Culture and Community in Emden – Focus on Architecture, Memory Culture, and Museum Development

Culture and Community in Emden: Architecture, Memory Culture, and Future Perspectives

Culture is more than events – it is identity, memory, and the future. In February 2026, Emden's cultural policy clearly demonstrated how diverse and future-oriented the city's approach to cultural resources is. With a focus on architecture, museum development, and memory culture, Emden not only addressed historical themes but also took concrete steps toward a sustainable cultural strategy.

The Exhibition "ZICKZACK": Brick Expressionism as a Societal Mirror

The special exhibition "ZICKZACK – Emder Brick Expressionism 100 Years Ago" is a central project that sheds light on the cultural and societal context of the Weimar Republic in Emden. Brick Expressionism, a regional expression of Expressionist architecture, is interpreted in the exhibition not only as a stylistic form, but as a societal process. The architecture of the 1920s and 1930s – from the Herrentorschule to the AOK building – is contextualized in terms of education, hygiene, leisure, and housing.

Particularly noteworthy is the focus on young adults and families. The "Brick Room" in the exhibition offers interactive opportunities that directly involve children and youth in the cultural process. This not only enables education but also ensures the sustainability of cultural memory. The exhibition, on display at the Ostfriesisches Landesmuseum from May 9, 2026, to April 1, 2027, is an example of how culture in Emden is shaped both historically and actively.

Future of the City Archives: Challenges and Solution Proposals

The Emden City Archives, led by Dr. Rolf Uphoff, play a central role in preserving and communicating the city's history. With over 2,400 meters of archival material and an extensive library, the archives are an indispensable cultural and administrative component of the city. However, the premises, particularly the bunker in Borssum, face significant challenges: damage has made visits impossible, and the storage conditions are no longer sustainable in the long term.

In a meeting of the Cultural Committee, three scenarios for the future of the archives were discussed:

• Scenario I involves a move to an industrial hall in the Frisiapark.
• Scenario II combines the archives and the state museum in a shared hall – a solution that promises synergies.
• Scenario III involves the renovation of the bunker – the most expensive and technically complex option.

Scenario II is recommended. It is considered the most cost-effective and sensible option, as it can accommodate not only the archive collections but also the museum holdings. The next steps include the formation of a project team, the determination of storage and climate needs, and the planning of spaces for restoration and quarantine. The goal is to present a preliminary concept by the end of the summer break.

Forum for Memory Culture: Networking as a Future Task

Another important project is the establishment of a Forum for Memory Culture. The goal is to network volunteers and strengthen memory culture in Emden. The Forum will focus on historical events of particular significance to Emden. It is not only an instrument for remembrance but also a contribution to social networking and coexistence in the city.

The administration will organize and document the Forum, with no direct financial impact expected. This shows that cultural work in Emden is not always dependent on budgets, but often based on commitment, networking, and community.

Conclusion: Culture as an Investment in the Future

In February 2026, Emden demonstrated that cultural policy is more than event planning. With the exhibition "ZICKZACK," the future perspective for the City Archives, and the establishment of a Forum for Memory Culture, the city has set impulses that are both historically rooted and forward-looking. Emden's cultural policy is an example of how culture can be understood and implemented as an investment in identity, education, and community.