Manifesta 16 to Transform Ruhr Churches into Exhibition Spaces
Manifesta 16, the nomadic European biennial, will take place in the Ruhr region of Germany, focusing on the adaptive reuse of churches. The Ruhr, a polycentric urban area comprising Bochum, Essen, Duisburg, Gelsenkirchen, and Dortmund, was historically defined by coal mining and steel production. Following deindustrialization, many industrial sites have become cultural heritage, and churches are being reimagined for new community functions. The biennial will explore how these sacred spaces can be repurposed for contemporary art and social engagement, addressing the region's identity shift from industrial powerhouse to post-industrial landscape. The event is scheduled for 2026, with specific dates and venues to be announced.
Key facts
- Manifesta 16 will be held in the Ruhr region of Germany.
- The biennial focuses on repurposing churches as exhibition and community spaces.
- The Ruhr includes cities Bochum, Essen, Duisburg, Gelsenkirchen, and Dortmund.
- The region's economy was historically based on coal and steel.
- Deindustrialization has led to the conversion of factories into cultural sites.
- Many churches in the Ruhr are seeking new functions.
- Manifesta 16 is scheduled for 2026.
- The event will address post-industrial identity and urban transformation.
Entities
Institutions
- Manifesta
Locations
- Ruhr
- Germany
- Bochum
- Essen
- Duisburg
- Gelsenkirchen
- Dortmund