Berlin Freibad Debate: Ethnographic Research Reveals Swimming Pools as Ideological Battlefields
In a recent newsletter, journalist Barbara Schweizerhof discussed the opening of the 'Volksbad' in front of the Berlin Volksbühne, but the project quickly became the subject of a heated debate. The controversy prompted further articles, including an interview by Lilli Zenth with Esra Sarıoğlu, who conducts ethnographic field research in public swimming pools (Freibäder). Sarıoğlu concludes that 'swimming pools have become ideological battlefields.' The newsletter also touches on the enduring influence of Tim Curry's performance in 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' and mentions the 'Endlich Freitag!' column. The debate reflects broader societal tensions, as Freibäder and election posters are seen as mirrors of society.
Key facts
- The 'Volksbad' opened in front of the Berlin Volksbühne.
- A debate about the project broke out shortly after the newsletter was sent.
- Lilli Zenth interviewed Esra Sarıoğlu, who researches Freibäder (public swimming pools).
- Sarıoğlu stated: 'Swimming pools have become ideological battlefields.'
- The newsletter also references Tim Curry's performance in 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show'.
- The article is part of the 'Endlich Freitag!' column.
- The author is Barbara Schweizerhof.
- The piece was published in the Freitag newspaper.
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Volksbühne
- Freitag
Locations
- Berlin
- Germany