The current debate about the “cityscape,” re-ignited by statements made by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has shown how contested and at the same time unclear this term is. In political discourse, the cityscape is often charged with normative connotations: as an expression of order, identity, or supposed cultural homogeneity. But whose perceptions are being referred to, which social realities are being ignored – and what consequences do such interpretations have for coexistence in a city like Frankfurt?
In a panel discussion with experts from academia and practice, we want to explore what “cityscape” can actually mean—beyond simplistic attributions. The focus will be on the perceptions of Frankfurt residents themselves: We therefore invite you to send us materials about your personal cityscape in advance.
We expressly understand this event to be an open forum. The aim is not to define a “correct” cityscape, but to highlight diversity, contradictions, and joint negotiation processes. We look forward to your participation in the discussion.
You are also welcome to send us impressions (e.g., in the form of drawings, photos, or texts) that show places or scenes from your everyday life that shape your personal cityscape.
Please send your contributions by email by April 10, 2026, to: f.weidner@kunst.uni-frankfurt.de. A selection of the submissions will be shown at the event.
29.04.2026, 18:30
Stadthaus Frankfurt
Markt 1, 60311 Frankfurt
Free admission, no advance registration required.
The event will be in German.
“Kontroverse Architekturen” is a series of events organized by the interdisciplinary Research Training Group “Organizing Architectures” in cooperation with the Volkshochschule Frankfurt (Adult Education Center) as part of Frankfurt World Design Capital 2026.