Urban ReLeaf invites artists, designers, creative practitioners, and collectives to submit proposals for an exciting new opportunity in Mannheim, Germany.
We’re offering a €3,500 commission to co-create an original public artwork, installation, or participatory experience that transforms citizen-collected climate data into an engaging creative project.
Why this matters
Climate change is reshaping cities across Europe, and Mannheim is no exception. As one of Germany’s hottest cities, its densely built-up neighbourhoods experience significant heat stress during the summer, making climate adaptation an increasingly urgent challenge.
Through the Urban ReLeaf project, local residents have been collecting environmental data on urban heat, thermal comfort, and trees, helping to build a clearer picture of how climate change is experienced across the city. More than 100 urban trees have been mapped, alongside community insights into the quality and comfort of public spaces.
We now want to transform this data into a creative public artwork or participatory experience that encourages people to explore climate challenges, connect with their local environment, and imagine greener, more resilient cities.
What we’re looking for
We are seeking an individual artist, designer, creative practitioner, or collective with a strong creative vision for public engagement.
You do not need to be a scientist or have experience working with environmental data. What matters most is your ability to translate community experiences and climate information into an engaging and accessible creative project.
We are open to formats including:
- Public artworks and installations
- Photography
- Illustration, painting, graphic design, mapping, and printmaking
- Sculpture and traditional crafts, including wood, clay, and textiles
- Interactive or participatory experiences
Details
Budget: €3,500 (includes all artist fees, production, materials, travel, and project expenses)
Location: Mannheim
Delivery timeline: October–November 2026
Deadline to apply: 6 September 2026
Interviews: 28–30 September 2026
Project begins: October 2026
What you’ll receive
- Support from the Urban ReLeaf team, City of Mannheim, researchers, and community partners
- Access to citizen-generated environmental data
- Opportunities to engage with local communities and Urban ReLeaf participants
- Public exhibition of the completed work in Mannheim’s Technical Town Hall
- Visibility across Urban ReLeaf’s European communication channels
How to apply
Please submit your proposal and supporting documents to: Johanna.Doerre@Mannheim.de
Subject line: Urban ReLeaf Creative Proposal – Mannheim
For questions or accessibility requirements, please contact: Johanna.Doerre@Mannheim.de