Many people want to have a greater say in matters that directly affect them. Citizen-commissioned art is one answer to this. People, no matter who they are or where they come from, find with us the opportunity to take direct responsibility and confront difficult issues in their village or neighborhood. As mediators, we listen to them and support them in trying out new ways to find answers to pressing questions.
And because some questions cannot be answered easily, we bring art into the picture. When there seems to be no solution to problems and important ideas don't take shape, artists can provide the decisive impetus to get things moving, to open up a new perspective, to make things work.
The search for the possible - that's what we call a commission for art. Art can be many things: a building, a theater or dance piece, the design of a landscape, or even a classical sculpture on the market square. Commissioning works of art has a long tradition in Europe - but only very few people were in a position to do so. Today, in principle, anyone can do it. As a New Patron.
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FIRST STEP: THE PEOPLE
Meeting of the New Patrons of Wietstock
Photo: Victoria TomaschkoSometimes it's very small, sometimes big issues that get things started. But it always begins with people who are dissatisfied and want to change something - but perhaps don't yet know how. In our mediators, they find trusted partners who listen attentively. Together we immerse ourselves in the topic.
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SECOND STEP: THE COMMISSION
Mediator Holger Friese with the signed commission
Photo: Victoria TomaschkoIn order to formulate a clear concern, a lot needs to be thought through: What exactly is this all about? Is there an unresolved conflict? Is there something important that remains unseen and unsaid? Is there a lack of imagination as to how a necessary transformation can succeed? This is how the “commission” is created which everyone signs.
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THIRD STEP: THE ARTISTS
Laure Prouvost visits Eberswalde
Photo: Victoria TomaschkoNext, the mediators suggest an artistic personality who develops a project idea on behalf of the citizens. The artists listen, ask questions and interpret the commission. They create a draft that often gives rise to further debate.
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FORTH STEP: THE ARTWORK IS CREATED
Planning conversation between structural engineer Hans Schürings and architect Uwe Hillekamp, start of construction 2022
Photo: Florian WagnerOnce everyone is convinced of the artistic idea, it is “built”. Many people are involved: From local metalworkers and dedicated administrative staff to the accompanying journalist. The costs are covered by public funds or sponsors.
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FIFTH STEP: THE WORK BECOMES PUBLIC
Opening "A Garden With Bridges" on May 7, 2023
Photo: Florian WagnerThe ceremonial opening, inauguration or premiere of the commissioned work is a great moment for everyone. The art created especially for the location can engage many people. It can create bold and moving visions for community and identity.
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SIXTH STEP: AN AFTERLIFE EVOLVES
Presentation of "In C – Marler Partitur"
Photo: Florian WagnerMany works have an effect or “function” for years and decades. It is well known that some art can endure for a long time. However, the sustainability of commissioned works lies above all in the social aspect. They bear witness to the fact that something important has been achieved. They demonstrate that change is possible. They encourage people to tackle other things.