Since autumn 2015, the research focus PUBLIC CITY has been hosting a series of events dedicated to its core research topics.
These events — PUBLIC CITY TALKS — promote dialogue between all those interested in “the city.” Topics range from globalisation and migration through neoliberal urban policy and its effects to segregation, gentrification and exclusion. New technologies and forms of co-existence in post-industrial societies are also discussed. Special attention is given to the inclusion of artistic perspectives and to the role of the arts in urban transformation processes. Invited experts from the most common disciplines of urban practice and theory discuss the city and its current problems with artists. Participants discuss how urban habitats present themselves today and in the future and what a common path might look like to both better understand and actively participate in shaping the development of the city, especially with a view to its public spaces.
Each PUBLIC CITY TALK has two parts: In a first part, speakers present their thoughts on what they consider a pressing issue and, if applicable, suggest possible solutions (30-35 min.). These questions are then discussed in a subsequent plenary session in the context of the respective discipline.
In a second part, these approaches, questions and proposed solutions are related to the arts and discussed across disciplines. Two invited respondents explicitly address the ways in which the arts might become actively involved in these developments. The subsequent plenary discussion reflects on what the arts might contribute not only to better understanding but also to creatively designing the future city.