2025 marks a significant chapter in the history of photography: 100 years ago, the Leica I was introduced as the first 35mm camera to be mass-produced – an idea that not only revolutionized technical standards but also changed the way we view the world. With the new exhibition Leica – Witness to a Century, Leica Welt in Wetzlar celebrates this milestone with an impressive tribute to photography, design, and innovation.

Following its successful debut in Italy as part of the Milano Design Week, the exhibition will be showcased in the brand’s home city for the anniversary year. From June 29, 2025, it will be on display as a special exhibition on the first floor of the Ernst Leitz Museum, where the Leica Design exhibition was previously held.

The Camera as Language: 100 Years of Leica I
The exhibition invites visitors to embark on a journey through a century of visual culture. At its core is the vision of Oskar Barnack, who developed the Leica as more than just a photographic tool. His idea transformed photography into a universal language – a way to capture moments, depict reality, and bring memories to life.

Since 1925, Leica has quietly witnessed history – standing for a design that is entirely dedicated to function, allowing the focus to remain on what matters most: the moment.

An Installation of Light and History
A key highlight of the exhibition is a multisensory installation. Iconic Leica cameras unfold in a stunning interplay of light on transparent panels. In dialogue with these objects are selected photographs that document milestones in history.

Exhibition Design Reflecting Leica Principles
Following the design principles of Leica Design, the exhibition adheres to a clear concept: reduction to the essentials. The entire space – including floor and ceiling – is rendered in deep black. The minimalist presentation creates a calm, focused environment where the imagery and objects can unfold in an immediate and impactful way.