Manifesta 16 Ruhr

Manifesta 16 Ruhr will take place across four cities in the Ruhr Area, Germany: Duisburg, Essen, Gelsenkirchen and Bochum, in 12 abandoned post-war church buildings spread across the Host Cities.

Manifesta 16 Ruhr, to be held in 2026, will focus on the historic architectural and social renewal that occurred in the post-war era of the Ruhr Area. This time was marked by the construction of Modernist and Brutalist churches, built to address the urgent needs of reconstruction and rapid population growth. The churches became a powerful new symbol of democracy, exemplifying citizen involvement as they were constructed with the physical manpower of the local communities. Although these post-war churches have left a significant architectural legacy, a decline in church attendance over the last 30 years has led to many being abandoned or underused. The fate of these churches — whether they are to be demolished, repurposed or left to decay — requires urgent attention.

What to expect:
Film / Video, Architecture, Sculpture, Installation, Mixed media, Multi-disciplinary