Photograghy: Nicole Benwah
The main objective of the PROGRESS2020 project, is to use art to interpret current thoughts and contemplations on the experiences of the African diaspora.
However, recent events have further highlighted our respective roles within society. 2020 will undoubtedly be defined as a year which both challenged and re-defined how we consider our basic social constructs, and to re-evaluate our common lifestyle frameworks such as our sense of citizenship, our work and studies, health, family, authority, and isolation.
With a specfic interest in the female perspective of city experiences, we invited four women, active in Bremen to participate in a photo-shoot sharing narratives that consider their current thoughts on city life.
Virginie Kamche, Moderator (Afrika Netzwerk Bremen)
Ngozi Schommers (Multidisciplinary Artist)
Kai Wargella (Politician)
Margaretha Paulick (Student)
We asked them to highlight their views on current global debates relating to race, identity, gender and citizenship, emphasising the nature of the debate in Bremen, and the wider Germany response.
We propose utilising the landmark Wasserturm auf dem Werder, affectionally known as the Umgedrehte Kommode, to create a unique installation that uses light to highlight identity, duality and delicate urban evolution.
The installation is appropriate for a number of reasons. Well considered public art delivers a number of important outcomes, serving as an important platform for civic dialogue and must be considered one of the most democratic of art forms. Additionally, well programmed public art invokes civic pride, improving social cohesion by engaging citizens in healthy debate, and encouraging the understanding of the historical and cultural background of our public spaces.
In summary, this installation will further highlight the positive aspirations of the city of Bremen, providing a positive and unique way for residents to connect to an historic asset.
