Urban Vision
On the 5th of February 2025, Manifesta 16 Ruhr held its first Urban Vision Workshop, marking a significant milestone in preparations for the 2026 edition in the Ruhr Area. Led by First Creative Mediator Josep Bohigas and Manifesta Director Hedwig Fijen, the workshop brought together a diverse group of participants from cultural institutions, social and urban initiatives, and religious communities. The session provided an opportunity to reflect on Manifesta’s potential role in the region’s complex social, cultural, and urban landscape.
The Urban Vision is a key component of the pre-biennial research process, examining the Ruhr Area’s current and historical urban fabric. Drawing on Josep Bohigas’ expertise in urban transformation—particularly his work fostering social cohesion and innovative urban solutions in Barcelona—the workshop explored ways to strengthen connections within neighbourhoods undergoing constant change.
The Manifesta 16 Ruhr Urban Vision Presentation, St. Josef Church in Gelsenkirchen-Ückendorf, 2025
As one of the key pillars of Manifesta, the European Nomadic Biennial, the organisation maintains a strong focus on urban development in its Host Cities or Regions. Since Manifesta 12 Palermo in 2018, the biennial has integrated comprehensive urban research projects developed by internationally renowned architectural firms. The Urban Vision serves as a social and urban foundation for the Second Creative Mediators, who shape the Artistic Programme.
Ultimately, Josep Bohigas will present the Urban Vision in the Summer of 2026.
Josep Bohigas, Manifesta 16 Ruhr's First Creative Mediator
