Who actually decides what is beautiful? And how much do Instagram, TikTok, and other social media platforms influence the way we see ourselves and our bodies?

Flawless skin, perfect proportions, and seemingly effortless beauty: every day, we encounter images on social media that shape our ideas of attractiveness. But where does inspiration end and the pressure to live up to an ideal begin? What role do algorithms, filters, and societal expectations play?

Together with model and influencer Sarina Nowak and psychologist Pauline Stockmann, we talk about beauty ideals, body image, and the impact of social media on mental health. Personal experiences meet scientific perspectives as we explore how we can free ourselves from unrealistic beauty standards.

The conversation is moderated by Tsellot Melesse, who also critically examines beauty norms and societal expectations on her own social media channels.

Presented in partnership with Dove, the talk is part of the public program accompanying the current exhibition Social Studies by Lauren Greenfield. It connects with The Beauty Machine, an installation presented at the museum that was created by Lauren Greenfield on behalf of Dove. The installation powerfully illustrates how supposedly diverse representations of beauty are increasingly becoming more uniform under the influence of algorithms.

Look forward to an open conversation about self-perception, societal pressure surrounding beauty, and the power of the images we consume every day.

Participants receive a goodie bag (while supplies last).

About the Speakers

Sarina Nowak 
Sarina is an internationally working curvy model, actress, and content creator. She has appeared in campaigns and shoots for brands such as Sports Illustrated, Good American, and Skims, and is passionate about promoting body positivity, self-love, and greater diversity in the fashion industry. Through her work and social media channels, she aims to inspire women to embrace their bodies, question societal beauty ideals, and recognize their own worth regardless of their clothing size.

Pauline Stockmann 
Pauline Stockmann (she/her) is a clinical psychologist, author, speaker, and content creator. More than 49,000 people follow her on Instagram, where she speaks openly and honestly about mental health, personal topics, and real life. She is deeply committed to destigmatizing mental health and starting conversations that often don't get enough space in everyday life. Through her content, she aims to encourage people to talk about the things that scare them and to create a safe space where they feel understood and realize they are not alone in their thoughts and feelings.

The talk will be held in German.

About the Moderator

Tsellot Melesse is a moderator, filmmaker, and content creator based in Berlin. She feels most at home where pop culture meets politics; personal stories intersect with social issues, and different lived experiences come together. With a healthy dose of Berlin attitude, humor, and curiosity, she questions social norms, brings new perspectives to light, and isn't afraid to ask the questions no one else does. She believes conversations don't always have to be comfortable, but they should always make a difference.

Program

• 18:30 – Doors open 
• 19:00 – Talk 
• 19:45 – Q&A 
• 20:00 – End 
  Open seating

Tickets

• 0€ – Event 
• 0€ – Members