In an audacious effort to breathe new life into Germany’s beleaguered Ruhr region, the Manifesta biennale has taken over a dozen derelict churches that once served as community hubs. These spaces, now filled with art installations, sporting events, and communal activities, aim to foster a sense of identity and connection in an area long ravaged by deindustrialisation and societal fragmentation. As the event unfolds, it confronts the stark realities of the region while seeking to ignite a radical community spirit.
A Historical Context of Decline and Resilience
The Ruhr Valley, once the industrial powerhouse of Germany, has faced relentless decline since the mid-20th century. Following the devastation of World War II, planners devised a unique solution to rebuild the community: the construction of Pantoffelkirchen, or “slipper churches.” These structures were designed to be close to residential areas, allowing congregants to attend services without the need for formal attire. However, today, this legacy is overshadowed by the harsh reality of abandoned places; up to 300 churches are estimated to be disused, with many falling into disrepair.
Manifesta 16 Ruhr, which runs until October 4, is not just another art exhibition. It is an ambitious attempt to reclaim these neglected spaces, using them as a canvas for contemporary art and community engagement. The event serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that have beset the region, including skyrocketing unemployment rates and the rise of far-right political sentiments.
Reimagining Community Through Art
Curated by Josep Bohigas, the biennale has intentionally sidestepped the grand, industrial spaces typically associated with such events. Instead, it has chosen to focus on the intimate and often overlooked “slipper churches.” Bohigas’s perspective is refreshingly candid: “I don’t care about churches, I care about neighbourhoods,” he asserts, highlighting the need for art to address the lived experiences of local communities rather than merely showcasing aesthetic beauty.
Many installations evoke the region’s complex history, juxtaposing the vibrant yet tumultuous past with contemporary issues. One standout is the Kulturkirche Liebfrauen in Duisburg, an arts centre that has transformed since its deconsecration. Here, visitors can experience installations that explore themes of memory and identity, including a thought-provoking film by Elizabeth Price that contrasts wartime experiences with the evolution of modernist architecture.
Challenges and Triumphs in Artistic Expression
Despite the ambitious vision, not all artistic endeavours resonate universally. Some larger installations, such as an inflatable bubble beach in St Josef, have drawn criticism for feeling out of place within the historic churches. Yet, in contrast, the smaller, more community-focused projects often resonate deeply. For instance, at St Bonifatius, the transformation into the Ferdane Satır Tea Garden pays homage to the Turkish guest worker experience, a poignant reminder of the multifaceted identity of the Ruhr.
The biennale also showcases works by artists with roots in the region’s immigrant history. For example, Gülbin Ünlü’s striking printed pigeon at Thomaskirche symbolises both displacement and community, while textile workshops foster connections through shared labour and creativity. These initiatives aim to reclaim the narrative around the churches, infusing them with new life and relevance.
The Surreal and the Substantial
In a particularly quirky twist, one of the slipper churches has been converted into a basketball court where missed shots trigger blasts from the church organ. This playful installation by Catalan artists Cabosanroque exemplifies the surreal blend of art and community engagement that characterises Manifesta 16. Rather than merely presenting established art forms, the event invites local youth to partake in a shared experience, fostering interaction and connection.
As the biennale unfolds, it presents a diverse tapestry of artistic expression, from whimsical installations to deeply resonant narratives. These micro-modernist churches, once symbols of a bygone era, now stand as a testament to the resilience and creativity of a community determined to redefine itself amid adversity.
Why it Matters
Manifesta 16 Ruhr is more than an art exhibition; it is a bold statement about the power of community, creativity, and resilience in the face of systemic decline. By repurposing forgotten spaces, the biennale challenges narratives of hopelessness and disconnection, offering a platform for dialogue and reflection. As the Ruhr grapples with its identity in the shadow of its industrial past, this event serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even in the most challenging circumstances, art can forge connections and inspire change.
