The Stiftung Buchkunst is presenting the exhibition Die Schönsten Deutschen Bücher 2025 (The Most Beautiful German Books 2025) for the first time at the GfZK – an annual presentation that celebrates the medium of books in their most beautiful form. As part of Leipzig’s theme year Mehr als eine Geschichte. Buchstadt Leipzig (More than a story. Leipzig, city of books), this exhibition continues a long tradition: The idea of selecting the most beautiful books each year was originally developed in Leipzig in the late 1920s.
For almost 60 years, the Stiftung Buchkunst has been honoring the 25 most beautiful books of the year as part of its renowned competition. The award-winning works are not only visual masterpieces, but also catalysts for a new dialogue about book design.
Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the 25 award-winning books of the year, leaf through them, and exchange ideas about their design and significance. The exhibition is complemented by discussions with key figures from the design and book scene who will discuss the future of books and their visual language.
At the opening of the exhibition, the award-winning book Prototyp 1928–33 will be presented in a conversation with editor and author Ute Richter and designers Nelly Nakahara and Gerrit Brocks. They will discuss the significance of the work, its unique design, and the history of the Leipzig School of Work—an educational project whose influence continues to resonate today.