This exhibition invites us to pause, observe, and find beauty in the everyday—moments that, once fleeting, now become timeless through his lens. Youkilis, a New York-born photographer and filmmaker, captures life’s rhythm with exquisite detail—a stranger’s glaze, a moment of tenderness, a portrait of an everyday instrument. His work, often rendered through the lens of his iPhone, transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, reflecting both intimate personal moments and the wider tapestry of the world.

In the context of Berlin’s dynamic cultural landscape, Under the Sun takes on particular resonance. The city, a melting pot of diverse identities and artistic expression, stands as a vital crossroads for cultural exchange, particularly with the upcoming Berlinale and the rich array of events hosted by foreign embassies. Berlin, always at the intersection of past and future, is the perfect stage for an exhibition that captures the shared humanity we all experience, no matter where we are from. Youkilis’s photographs evoke the same spirit that

permeates Berlin during moments of cultural convergence—whether through the lens of a festival, a film premiere, or an art exhibition. The city reflects a globalized world, where stories, images, and ideas are exchanged across continents.

Under the Sun is more than an exhibition—it is a reflection of how art functions in today’s fast-paced, image-driven world. Youkilis’s work, straddling the line between professional artistry and the immediacy of social media, offers insight into how visual culture shapes our identities, narratives, and connections. As social networks evolve, photography becomes integral to how we communicate our personal stories, experiences, and cultural identities. In Berlin, the exhibition is a reminder of the city’s role as a beacon of cultural dialogue, drawing from a history of openness, creativity, and global engagement.

This exhibition invites visitors to experience the world through Youkilis’s eyes—through the lens of shared moments and universal symbols. The immersive experience creates a space where art becomes both a personal reflection and a collective experience, one that transcends geography and time. Accompanying the exhibition is a publication that delves deeper into Youkilis’s visual storytelling, offering insight into how his images weave together the everyday and the extraordinary.

Under the Sun enriches Berlin’s cultural fabric, strengthening its role as a global crossroads for creative expression and fostering a deeper understanding of art’s power to connect and inspire.

Feb 1 - May 7, 2025
C/O Berlin Foundation

• - https://co-berlin.org/en/program/exhibitions/sam-youkilis