I'm a fan! Showcase & PopUp Shop
This unique exhibition in a Berlin gallery showed one thing above all: diversity.
"I'm a Fan!" presented a showcase of the three very first hand fan collections: Berlin, Queers* & Friends, and Art Deco, to coincide with the 2024 summer launch.
The installation tells the story of fans, popular accessories for centuries, which originally came to Europe primarily from China and Japan. Through texts, viewers learn about the significance of hand fans in tradition and culture, as well as some of the special features of Chinese folding fans compared to Spanish fans, for example. Fans were also available for purchase on site.
Expression and individuality through fans
Hand fans are expressive accessories that are brought to life by the person who wears them. The first room featured both photographs and the fans themselves. The images in the exhibition showcase the founder's ideas and the thoughts behind the designs, influenced by the people involved. The photos themselves were created organically, with room for individual creativity and exchange. The photo shoot deliberately avoided excessive retouching or unrealistic styling. Diversity was and remains a central theme.
Photographic journey through the collections
Photographically, the journey began with the elegant 1920s aesthetic of Art Deco, combined with the versatility of fans. Whether as a stylish party accessory, a gift, or a practical companion on the subway – the hand fan is suitable for (almost) everyone.
The Queers* & Friends collection showcases parts of the community, its themes, and welcomes supporters. The term "queer" encompasses various orientations and identities, emphasizes intersectionality and individuality, and gives a platform to often overlooked identities. Some motifs remind us that free expression is a valuable and protected privilege.
Berlin originals, and a look behind the scenes
In the second room, the Berlin collection led visitors through the city, past landmarks like the Oberbaum Bridge and Warschauer Straße, with its capital city attitude and bicycle jungle. A declaration of love for the city, where you can dance the days and nights away together.
At the end, there was a look behind the scenes at the founder and the people who made this possible, as well as the opportunity to purchase I'm a Fan! fans on site.
The motto of this exhibition, including a showcase and pop-up shop, was to be inspired by diversity and joy with the hand fans from "I'm a Fan!".
Impressions of the showcase: (c) I'm a Fan!/ Geraldine Nirschl (@space.of.reflection)
Showcase & PopUp Shop also in your city?
If you are interested in bringing the exhibition to your city, please write to us without obligation at info @ imafan.eu