23. Brandenburg Gate

Vanessa Cardui | Germany

Vanessa Cardui turns the Brandenburg Gate into a stage for giant insects in her stop-motion piece BUILDING INSECTS. Paper-crafted beetles and caterpillars crawl across the façade, while a 20-meter-wide spider stretches its legs over the landmark. The video projection draws attention to the decline of insect populations, giving these creatures a prominent place in the heart of Berlin. The Berlin-based video artist is internationally known for her imaginative paper worlds, with her work addressing themes of environment, sustainability, and questioning what it means to be human—and a woman—in times of change.

SKGPLUS | China

SKGPLUS interprets the theme “United We Shine” through the CIRCLE as a symbol of harmony and unity. Brightly colored circles overlap, creating new colors and shapes—a metaphor for a diverse society that, despite its differences, forms a unified whole. Inspired by Chinese culture, where circles represent family and happiness, the concept of the Circle of Life is not only reflected in the projections but also in the artist’s personal life. In November, she is expecting her baby, and those who look closely will notice the symbolism of life taking shape.

VAMOS Animation | Germany

VAMOS Animation celebrates freedom and life with THE NATURAL ORDER, inspired by Samuel Beckett’s quote, “Dance first. Think later. It’s the natural order.” This piece celebrates dance as a spontaneous and liberating form of expression, reflecting personal and cultural identity. Colorful, dancing figures show how movement connects people, strengthens social bonds, and tells universal stories of joy, sorrow, and hope. It’s no surprise that dancing is a key part of important celebrations and festive occasions!

Magic Innovations | United Arab Emirates/Ukraine

Magic Innovations delivers a truly magical, awe-inspiring show. Tiny worlds blur like raindrops, revealing entire universes upon closer inspection. Sunflower fields and golden trees grow along the pillars of the Brandenburg Gate, bearing glowing fruit. The message is clear: together, we create an energy as boundless and infinite as the universe itself.

MP-STUDIO | Bulgaria

MP-STUDIO from Bulgaria, multiple winners of the Festival of Lights Award, present an extraordinary show outside the competition. This renowned team of artists brings back the greatest highlights from 20 years of the festival’s history. Many of their iconic projections have traveled the world and graced Berlin’s most famous landmarks. Now it’s time to bring these masterpieces back into the spotlight, shining brighter than ever.