Three deaf artists met on stage at the Lettrétage in October 2025 to discuss the current state of literature in German Sign Language. The following questions formed the starting point: What artistic possibilities does the visual and physical nature of sign language offer for poetry? What aesthetic forms have emerged, and what significance do they hold? What status does poetry in German Sign Language hold within the deaf community compared to other forms of artistic expression?

The discussion also addressed the different artistic approaches of various generations of poets, as well as social issues and aspects relating to discrimination: How does sign language poetry contribute to the cultural identity of the deaf community? How can an appreciation for this art form help to foster a better understanding of deaf culture among hearing people?

The conference featured keynote speeches and panel discussions by invited deaf artists, as well as audience discussions involving direct interaction with the deaf community. The primary target audience was deaf people; however, thanks to full interpreting services, hearing visitors were also able to participate.

The project was funded by Senatsverwaltung für Kultur und Gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt (the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion).