Sponge Landscapes

Abstract

Both as an exhibition and as a public programme, the open workroom SPONGE LANDSCAPES make the state of an emerging practice. It builds upon the broad range of materials gathered through our Call for Projects & Objects. Submissions come from all corners of Europe – from around our corner in Brussels to the outskirts of the continent – and were sent in by a great variety of practitioners: regional coordinators, landscape designers, researchers, nature organisations, farmers and farming organisations, volunteers, and policy innovators. In the open workroom, we build upon their experiences by working across five dimensions.

1. Connecting Sponge Loops: the sponge landscape activates physical processes 2. Designing Sponge Landscapes: tailored strategies for different sponge landscapes 3. Basin-wide transformation: many small sponge works make the sponge landscape 4. Sponge Coalitions: no basin-wide implementation without a watershed movement 5. Re-sponging Europe: a mission-driven approach for sponge landscapes

Five dimensions to explore and develop together. Yes indeed, just as the last edition, the open workroom invites you to roll up your sleeves and join in! The open workroom functions as a setting for a programme of closed workshops and public debates, bringing together anyone with a stake in replenishing the sponge landscape.