Pilot phase (2026-2027)
Urban Streams is an international and interdisciplinary residency project that focuses on urban waterways and their ecological, social, and cultural significance. The project is being realized by Spreepark Art Space Berlin in collaboration with four EUNIC partners: the British Council, the Finland Institute, the Embassy of Ireland, and the Embassy of the Republic of Estonia.
Urban Streams focuses on artistic and creative research into urban water systems and the complex challenges they face today. In addition to the effects of climate change—such as increasing periods of drought and heavy rainfall—the project also addresses urban densification, rising water demand, environmental pollution, and the limited adaptability of existing large-scale water infrastructures. In cities such as Berlin, increasing soil sealing further disrupts natural water cycles.
At the same time, Urban Streams understands urban watercourses as dynamic cultural and social spaces in which the interplay between urban society, natural ecosystems, and the built environment unfolds. Urban waterways shape social practices, cultural narratives, and collective identities. Their maintenance, restoration, and revitalization make an important contribution to urban resilience and the quality of life of humans and non-humans alike.
Exchange & public presentation
Urban Streams attaches great importance to exchange, knowledge transfer, and the visibility of artistic research. The artists work in dialogue with scientific institutions, cultural initiatives, water experts, and other local actors who provide insights into current research approaches and water-related urban development processes. The Spreepark Art Space offers an open framework for this, in which artistic processes become visible and different perspectives come together.
At the end of Urban Streams, the resulting works will be presented to the public.
Participation & involvement
Participation in Urban Streams is by direct invitation from the participating cultural institutions. Invited artists can then apply for the residency.
The final selection is made in a selection meeting of the partner committee, consisting of representatives of the cultural institutions, embassies, and Spreepark Art Space. The evaluation is based on the suitability of the content to the theme of Urban Waters, interest in collaborative forms of work, and motivation for international networking.
