November 22–23, 2024
The symposium “Public Art: Structures, Programmes and Constellations” is dedicated to an analysis and discussion of the conditions under which new projects and artworks are initiated, as well as the requirements for maintaining the existing inventory of art in the public space. Particular attention is paid to the involvement of independent experts, political bodies and administrations in the relevant processes. The spatial focus of the study is on the territory of the Federal Republic of Germany, with a time frame spanning the past ten years. The symposium is structured into three thematic blocks.
November 22, 2024: Museum für Kunst und Kulturgeschichte
1:30–5:30pm: Public Art and the Museum
The initial thematic block will examine the relationship between museums and art in the public domain. This will entail an analysis of instances in which museum institutions assume the scientific and/or technical management of artworks situated in urban environments. At the core of this analysis will be an investigation of the ways in which museums can contribute to the advancement of public art. Furthermore, this will give rise to an examination of the significance that this can have for museums.
Speakers: Georg Elben, Sebastian Freytag, Prof. Peter Gorschlüter, Julia Höner, Dr. des. Nora Jaeger, Prof. Folke Köbberling, André Kölsch, Barbara Walter.
6:30–8:30pm: Evening lecture
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the landscape of art, with a growing competition between public space and social media. In his lecture, Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich will undertake a detailed analysis and discussion of this phenomenon, employing a range of case studies. The case studies will be used to derive hypotheses regarding the future development of public art.
November 23, 2024: Baukunstarchiv NRW, Ostwall 7, 44135 Dortmund
9am–1:30pm: Collaborations and Constellations
The second thematic block of the symposium is dedicated to an examination of case studies in which actors intervene with works of art in the public space at a supra-municipal level, as well as an analysis of collaborative constellations that facilitate decentralised projects. Moreover, this thematic block will also examine independent artistic initiatives that are realising art projects with greater independence from art institutions. Innovative forms of commissions that test new approaches to decision-making and financing will be addressed as well.
Speakers: Markus Ambach, Kathrin Jentjens, Prof. Mischa Kuball, Marijke Lukowicz, Britta Peters, Lea Schleiffenbaum.
2–4:30pm: Municipal Programmes for Public Art
The third thematic block will focus on three major cities that exemplify the cultural and political aspiration to shape the urban environment through the creation of perennial artworks, or to temporarily transform public spaces through the implementation of time-based artistic approaches. The scope of responsibilities entrusted to the relevant administrative bodies is extensive and diverse. In addition to the creation of new works of art and temporary exhibitions, these entities are also responsible for providing counsel to relevant political authorities and for implementing mediation measures. A noteworthy aspect of this thematic block is the observation of differences in decision-making processes, administrative structures, and the financial and human resources deployed.
Speakers: Dr. Daniel Bürkner, Tosin Stifel, Joanna Warsza.
5–6:30pm: Concluding panel discussion: What kind of public art for Dortmund?
Over the past two years, discussions have been held by the Dortmund city administration on how to develop the structures and processes of public art. The symposium will conclude with a panel discussion of the possible content and focus of public art for the city of Dortmund based on the content and models introduced in this Symposium.
Speakers: Dr. Jacques Heinrich Toussaint, Rebekka Seubert, Denise Ritter, Kay von Keitz.
Entrance: free with mandatory registration
Language: German
The symposium is conceived by Dr. Jacques Heinrich Toussaint and organised by André Kölsch. A collaboration between the City of Dortmund’s Department Art in Public Space and Baukunstarchiv NRW.
