Leica Camera’s Leitz-Park Opening on May 21-24, 2014
As a photographer and a dreamer, I was honored to be at the extraordinary event of the opening of Leitz-Park, the new headquarters for Leica Camera AG and their 100 year jubilee. Arriving the day before the official opening, viewing Leica’s beautiful new building, a magical environment was created. There was a hushed serenity as the reflections in the curved windows of nature and light created abstract photographs bringing the inside out and the surrounding area outside in as one anticipated the excitement of entering.
The next day, many people entered. Ten thousand guests were expected. There was space which expanded as people viewed the exhibitions, the workplace where Leica products are created, a new Leica store with treasured items to be bought and a studio, featuring Rockstar Cycles, where participants were photographed with Leica’s new S camera and then given prints of their portraits. The elderly came to see again photographs they remembered, reminding them of times past during the history of their lives. The younger were brought by their parents to learn about the magic of photography and learn about its history.
The new Leica facility at Leitz-Park gives hope to future generations who will continue to learn from the history of Leica. Leica’s new building is a legacy for us all to be able to learn from the past, embrace the future, the wonder, hopes and dreams  of Leica for the future of photography.

– Claire Yaffa
You can also see more of Claire’s work on her website, www.claireyaffa.com.