Public Retreats

Between the festival programme and the city, an open retreat is created – a place where community can flourish and the independent arts scene can come together. As a Public Retreat, the space invites visitors to arrive, linger and engage in conversation with one another.

By describing Public Retreats as a ‘retreat into community’, we are referring to an ambivalent utopia: within the scene and in society at large, there is a great longing for rest, relaxation, tranquillity and time. How can we bring these qualities into our lives and into our work as freelance cultural workers and artists?

In the project space HANS A, during the second week of the festival, we’re creating a retreat to serve as the festival’s centre. You’re welcome to simply walk in, alone or in a group, and meet up with colleagues and friends here. At the Public Retreats, there are hot and cold drinks and plenty of opportunities to relax whilst engaging in lively conversations.