ORi: Help save a Neukölln arts collective

ORi is an arts and culture hotspot located in the heart of Neukölln, run by a collective of the same name that has been operating for almost 15 years. Operating out of the premises of a former laundromat, ORi has endured waves of gentrification and now stands as one of the last oases left for grassroots creativity in the neighbourhood, and a safe space for diverse forms of expression that has touched the hearts of hundreds of people from around the world over the years.

Skyrocketing rents, energy prices, and other living costs make the need for this sort of space — a place for emerging artists, designers, and musicians to flourish — even more evident. Nobody wants to see ORi replaced by yet another soulless place that would charge you for tap water.

But the way things are going, ORi might not make it past its 15th birthday.

So, after over a decade of being a hub for exhibitions, performances, volunteering efforts, workshops, and more, ORi is asking for your help. While the government provided a small amount of support during the pandemic, the lockdown delivered a hard blow to the collective’s finances, which, coupled with friction with the neighbours, leaves ORi’s future in limbo.

Our goal of €3,500 will be used to pay off debts from the pandemic so that we can keep the space, and some much needed renovations!

Our space, and other community-led venues are a vital part of our community and for the general culture of Berlin. Please join us in the fight to protect Berlin’s beloved cultural venues — starting with ORi.

Whether you’ve popped in once, attended every single event we’ve ever run, or merely like the concept of supporting a unique and special place, we would appreciate any support you can give. On the 22nd of September ORi is turning 15! and to celebrate we are having a little party and ART AUCTION to help towards our fundraising goal. Everyone is invited, and if you would like to donate an artwork to be auctioned off, then please get in touch!

For any questions, feel free to message us on Instagram at @oriberlin.