LOUD, DIFFERENT, EXPRESSIVE
Text & Interview: Jan-Piet Stempels Photos: Thomas Kettner, Moritz Morbach
In the first issue of SELECTION Hamburg, we meet artist and managing director Moritz Morbach, a man who, like Hamburg itself, embodies many apparent contradictions and is all the more fascinating for it. We meet him at Gleis 7 Studios in Bahrenfeld, which his husband Armin established 10 years ago – a creative powerhouse with an international reputation for fashion, beauty, photography, and publishing. Right in the heart of Hamburg? Yes, of course!
Moritz Morbach casts a charming, personal, and insightful gaze upon the unique characteristics of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. Sometimes poetic, sometimes profound, but always with the incurable love of a Hamburg addict.
There's a flurry of activity at the reception of the Morbach Group's studio and office complex. A Spanish model asks for the Wi-Fi password in broken English, two obviously French clients are being greeted, and a fleet of fully loaded clothing racks is being moved from one place to another. What was just moments ago unmistakably Bahrenfeld now feels more like London or Paris, housing not only photo studios but also the beauty magazine " TUSH , " the booking agency "Balsaal," and the production and creative agency " HOW-toDO." A few moments later, Moritz Morbach calmly makes his way through the scene and leads the way to the studio's own diner. It was his studies that first brought the native Rhinelander to the Elbe River, and a chance encounter in downtown Hamburg that brought him together with his now-husband, the photographer and artist Armin Morbach. A fortunate turn of events, not only in his personal life but also professionally, or rather, in his calling. Ultimately, it was Armin who recognized his husband's creative potential and successfully coaxed him out of the comfort zone of the civil service status he supposedly enjoyed as a teacher. Mittlerwelle has even created space for Moritz to pursue two careers simultaneously. On the one hand, as managing director, he and Armin oversee the day-to-day operations of the Morbach Group, and on the other hand, he regularly takes time off to pursue his artistic path – currently, for example, creating art from Lego bricks.
We asked him about this:
Hey Moritz, how did Lego get into your art?
Initially, it was a very playful approach. For a TUSH production, I created a Lego mask that completely covered the face. Starting this project triggered a lot of emotions in me. I spent hours rummaging through mountains of Lego bricks that had been stored in the attic since my childhood. Ultimately, though, I wanted to create something with Lego that could be hung on the wall, so I deliberately moved away from figurative art. It all started with a picture I made for our home. The reactions of our guests encouraged me to continue, and that opened up a completely new perspective. First, I produced a sufficiently large collection of images so that I could actually publish and exhibit them in the next step.
Do you have a visual concept for your Lego pictures before you start laying the bricks? Or is the creative process more open-ended?
For some pictures, I have very specific ideas and analytically calculate which and how many stones I need. For example, for my lipstick motif. The "boob pizza," on the other hand, came about by chance, out of a playful impulse that actually had a completely different goal. Sometimes I get into a flow and can let go wonderfully, but sometimes I need a radical change of perspective to free myself from a creative rut.
Is working on objects always a kind of retreat or meditation for you?
It starts much earlier than that. I order Lego by the kilo and also shop diligently at flea markets. Then I start sorting everything, and that alone is a pleasant, meditative task in itself. I listen to audiobooks or classical music and let myself drift away into my own private worlds.
Interview with Moritz Morbach
In some of your works you quote Piet Mondrian. Which artists inspire you?
Of course, I admire Mondrian for his pioneering spirit and clarity. But Monet – and especially Gustav Klimt – are particularly close to my heart.
Long before your Lego art, you began creating masks and decorative elements at the intersection of art and fashion. How did it all start?
Indeed, masks were my creative spark. Masks, upon closer inspection, are a central component of identity formation in every culture. They serve as a projection surface, a hiding place, and simultaneously an accentuation. It is precisely these contrasts that have always fascinated me – and that are also reflected in my masks.
How much is your creativity needed in your role as Managing Director at the Morbach Group?
Very much so (laughs). After all, I'm constantly switching roles throughout the day, correcting, delegating, and making decisions. But it's important to understand that all the projects we manage here require not only tight organization but also concrete creative input. We create new worlds and identities every day. That's precisely what makes the work so exciting – and at the same time, a great responsibility. I feel particularly at home at this intersection of craft and art, where I can contribute both conceptually and in the execution.
Did the magazine TUSH emerge from this context, this interface?
Yes, exactly. Almost 20 years ago, Armin created a platform to explore and showcase the full spectrum of his creativity, even beyond commissioned work. It's a great calling card for him – and now also for the entire team and network we work with here.
What role does Hamburg play in this?
Hamburg is more than just an extremely livable environment – for me, it's a city of opportunities. While no one is waiting for you here, the city is incredibly open and gives you room to breathe. Since I've been here, I've never felt rejected. Quite the opposite, in fact. The fact that so many different cultures and communities live side by side creates a liberal atmosphere that eliminates preconceived notions – which is incredibly important for creative processes.
You're also exhibiting at the Roschlaub Gallery – how did that come about?
I owe Kirsten Roschlaub a great deal. She made an exception for me when she included me in her portfolio – after all, her gallery is actually focused exclusively on photography. We met last year and quickly arranged our first exhibition project. I appreciated how uncomplicated and open everything was. Naturally, I was delighted that my first exhibition at Mittelweg was such a success.
Kirsten's passion for photography and art is infectious. With her gallery, she is one of the central hubs of Hamburg's art scene – especially in the elegant Pöseldorf district.
Do you perceive the city as one with many contrasts?
In a positive sense: yes. The Hamburg on the Alster is completely different from the Hamburg on the Elbe or in the Schanze district. There, it's "in your face," challenging, yet welcoming. In Harvestehude or Blankenese, the conservative, discreet side reveals itself with a touch of Britishness. Both exist—both must exist. Otherwise, Hamburg would be one-dimensional and uninspiring.
Which part of Hamburg do you feel at home in?
Everywhere. I draw my inspiration from every corner of the city. Karl Lagerfeld's mother once told him that Hamburg was the gateway to the world – but he also had to walk through it. Of course, that's true. Armin and I regularly seek new inspiration in New York, London, Milan, or elsewhere entirely. But the Hamburg we live in today has nothing to do with the Hamburg of the post-war era. The gateway is now open in both directions – and is far more international than many realize. We live this internationalism here on Friesenweg – and that's not only personally enriching but also a business advantage (laughs).
What are your plans for your artistic future?
Lego will definitely remain a core part of my work, but I think my creations will grow in scale. I'm excited to explore new avenues and discover further possibilities. At the same time, I will continue to create masks and unique pieces – a creative luxury I truly appreciate. The magic happens where circles close or new ones begin – and it's precisely these moments that are addictive.
Personal recommendations for enjoyment, inspiration and design
Hobenköök – Enjoy naturally
Stockmeyerstrasse 43, 20457 Hamburg
www.hobenkoeoek.de
Market hall and restaurant in one: Hobenköök in the Oberhafen district combines seasonal cuisine with a commitment to sustainability. Over 200 regional producers supply the basis for dishes that utilize everything – from radish leaves to vegetable peels. For Moritz, it's a culinary home far removed from eco-clichés, uniting enjoyment and responsibility.
Overmeyer Farm Shop – Deluxe Farm Shop
Emmelndorfer Str. 55, 21218 Seevetal
www.overmeyer-landbaukultur.de
A place with soul: The Overmeyer farm shop offers not only top-quality products, but also a welcoming atmosphere. Chickens roam freely, the kitchen produces soups and jams – and on special occasions, a visit becomes an experience for young and old.
Standard – Aperitivo Ahoy!
Große Freiheit 90, 22767 Hamburg
www.standard.hamburg
St. Pauli reimagined: The aperitivo bar .Standard. stands for a relaxed atmosphere, creative drinks, and vegetarian snacks. Perfect for starting your evening – without the tourist crowds.
LIBERTÉ – Look & Taste
Große Elbstraße 9a, 22767 Hamburg
www.liberte.hamburg
Right on the Elbe River, French joie de vivre meets harbor charm. Whether it's moules frites, cocktails, or the panoramic view: at LIBERTÉ, you can enjoy Hamburg's freedom in style.
Felix Jud – Intellectual Delicacies
Neuer Wall 13, 20354 Hamburg
www.felix-jud.de
A bookstore with a point of view. Since 1923, Felix Jud has been providing its readers with carefully selected works – beyond the mainstream. Readings and exhibitions round out the experience, and the Art Nouveau arcade lends the place a dignified ambiance.
Studio Gleis7 – Creative Space
Friesenweg 14, 22763 Hamburg
www.studiogleis7.com
The Morbach Group's creative hub is located in a former marzipan factory. Four light-filled studios offer ample space and style for photo shoots, events, and creative projects. Here, not only brands are born, but also new aesthetic worlds.
Fischbek Heath – Place of Power
Between forest and open spaces: The Fischbek Heath reminds Moritz of his childhood in the Oberbergisches Land region. Here he finds peace and inspiration – a natural place that slows him down.
Deichtorhallen – state of the art
Deichtorstrasse 1–2, 20095 Hamburg
www.deichtorhallen.de
One of Europe's most important exhibition venues for contemporary art. Superb curation, spectacular architecture – and for Moritz, a place that significantly shapes Hamburg's international image.
Green Bunker St. Pauli – Urban Jungle
Feldstraße 66, 20359 Hamburg
www.bunker-stpauli.de
From Nazi bunker to green cultural project. Hotel, restaurants, exhibitions and a spectacular roof garden at a height of 60 meters make this project a symbol of transformation – a statement for the future and remembrance.
MARKK – Pure inspiration
Rothenbaumchaussee 64, 20148 Hamburg
www.markk-hamburg.de
The Museum am Rothenbaum combines an ethnological collection with social relevance. Particularly fascinating are the impressively staged mummies and the magnificent entrance hall.
University of Music and Theatre – Surprisingly close
Harvestehuder Weg 12, 20148 Hamburg
www.hfmt-hamburg.de
A cultural hidden gem: Rachmaninoff on two pianos, Bach on the harpsichord. Small concerts with a big impact – an intimate setting for musical excellence.
Restaurant Torcello – Belly & Soul
Mittelweg 19, 20148 Hamburg
www.torcello-hamburg.de
Italy without a menu: What ends up on your plate depends on the quality of the ingredients that day. Mediterranean, authentic, and full of soul.
House & Garden – The stuff that dreams are made of
Mittelweg 117A, 20149 Hamburg
www.houseandgardenhamburg.de
A paradise for interior design lovers: home textiles, fabrics, wallpapers – from Hermès to Ralph Lauren. Here you can experience aesthetics with all your senses.
Roschlaub Gallery – Space for Pictures
Mittelweg 21, 20148 Hamburg
www.galerie-roschlaub.com
Photography takes center stage. The Roschlaub Gallery presents rotating exhibitions and fosters dialogue between artists and the public. For Moritz, it's a place of trust – and encounter.
The Fontenay – Relax Deluxe
Fontenay 10, 20354 Hamburg
www.thefontenay.com
Rooftop terrace overlooking the Alster, excellent service and tranquility in the heart of the city: The Fontenay is relaxation with class.
Tran Flower Shop – A Floral Surprise
Mittelweg 25, 20148 Hamburg
facebook.com/BlumenhausMittelweg
Special bouquets, exceptionally long-lasting – the small flower shop surprises with quality and heart.
stilwerk Hotel Heimhude – Stylish accommodation for friends
Heimhuder Straße 16, 20148 Hamburg
www.stilwerkhotels.com
A design hotel that combines historical architecture with modern style. Ideal for guests with a sense of aesthetics.
Harbeck's Lunchbox – Tasteful Chatter
Mittelweg 31, 20148 Hamburg
www.harbecks-henkelmann.de
Creative cuisine in miniature. Run by fashion designer Inga Harbeck – including jams, soups, breakfast and conversation.
Architecture Salon von Gerkan – A Statement in Concrete
Övelgönner Mühlenweg 1A, 22605 Hamburg
Architecture you can touch: No right angles, lots of light, lots of ideas. The showroom demonstrates how form, function, and emotion can come together.
HafenCity – Worth Living In
www.hafencity.com
One of the most modern inner-city developments in Europe. Water, architecture, culture – and a lifestyle that blends maritime and urban influences.