LWL-Freilichtmuseum Hagen | Mission Machen

For the special exhibition “Mission Machen – New Perspectives on Westphalian Craftsmanship”, 235 Media developed the exhibition design for the LWL-Freilichtmuseum Hagen. The starting point was the long-term photographic documentation by photographer Tuula Kainulainen, which makes the diversity of contemporary craftsmanship in Westphalia-Lippe visible.

At the heart of the exhibition was the question of how craftsmanship can not only be documented, but also made spatially tangible. Photographs, original objects, materials and media elements were combined to create an exhibition that offers insights behind workbenches, production processes and living craft traditions.

A particular challenge was the listed Haus Sümmern building. Existing display cases, wall surfaces and architectural structures were not overlaid, but deliberately integrated into the scenography and reinterpreted. The result is a design that preserves the character of the building while opening up new perspectives on craftsmanship.

The photographic works are complemented by tools, workpieces and materials from the portrayed businesses. Inspired by traditional workshop walls, 235 Media developed a modular exhibition architecture that connects content, exhibits and media into a coherent spatial experience. Visitors encounter craftsmanship not only visually, but also through surfaces, materials and objects that make the different trades directly tangible.

A central element of the exhibition is an immersive 360° video installation, offering insights into the working environments of the portrayed businesses. It is complemented by interactive hands-on stations and media-based in-depth formats that address different target groups and open up additional perspectives on contemporary craftsmanship.

235 Media was responsible for the concept, exhibition design, as well as design and execution planning. The result is an exhibition that shows how diverse, innovative and socially relevant craftsmanship is today — placing the people behind the workshops and products at its centre.