2025 marks a special chapter in the history of photography: 100 years ago, the Leica I, the first 35mm camera in series production, was introduced - an idea that not only changed the technical standard, but also our view of the world. With the new exhibition Leica - Witness to a Century, Leica Welt in Wetzlar is celebrating this anniversary with an impressive homage to photography, design and innovation.
Following its successful presentation in Italy - as part of the Milano Design Week - the exhibition will be on display in the brand's home country for the anniversary year. From June 29, 2025, it can be seen as a special exhibition on the second floor of the Ernst Leitz Museum - where the "Leica Design" exhibition was previously shown.
The camera as a language: 100 years of Leica I
The exhibition invites visitors on a journey through a century of visual culture. The focus is on the vision of Oskar Barnack, who developed far more than just a photographic tool with the Leica. His idea turned photography into a universal language - a way of capturing moments, depicting reality and bringing memories to life. Since 1925, Leica has accompanied history as a silent witness - and stands for a design that is completely subordinate to function, so that the eye can concentrate on the essentials: the moment.
An installation of light and history
A central highlight of the exhibition is a multi-sensory installation. Iconic Leica cameras unfold on transparent panels in an impressive play of light. Selected photographs documenting milestones in contemporary history form a dialog.
Interior design that reflects Leica principles
Like "Leica Design", the exhibition follows a clear design principle: reduction to the essentials. The entire room - including the floor and ceiling - is kept in deep black. The minimalist staging creates a calm, concentrated setting in which the visual worlds and objects unfold directly.
June 29 to December 21, 2025
