Following the inspiring visit of the Karlsruhe group to Modena in April, it was now the Italian partners’ turn to get to know the fan-shaped city from May 21 to 23. The return visit, part of the CULT: Modena x Karlsruhe project, marked another significant milestone in the cultural exchange between the two cities.
The Italian delegation was warmly welcomed by Karlsruhe’s Lord Mayor, Dr. Frank Mentrup, a sign of the high regard in which the project is held at the municipal level. The diverse program included visits to the ZKM | Center for Art and Media, the Baden State Theatre, and the creative district Alter Schlachthof. The group also explored Karlsruhe’s independent arts and cultural scene together.
The visit was accompanied by a journalist from Gazzetta di Modena and received prominent coverage in the Italian daily newspaper over the course of the three-day stay. Those fluent in Italian can read the articles here.
The exchange was marked by openness, mutual interest, and a palpable joy in shared dialogue. Numerous conversations and spontaneous encounters highlighted the immense potential of cooperation between the two cities.
What’s next?
After the intensive impressions from both cities, the focus now shifts to shaping the future direction of the project. What formats are suitable for sustainable collaboration? How can a lasting network between artists and cultural professionals in Modena and Karlsruhe be established? These and other questions will be explored further—initially in a webinar scheduled for July—in collaboration with all participants.