Robert Köpke, graduate from HFBK Hamburg and HGB Leipzig with a Master's degree in Curatorial Practice, currently works at the intersection of curation, design, and art. As a Research Associate at Leibniz Institute for Regional Geography, he specializes in visualizing biodiversity data through mapping.
His work, which merges art, design, and social engagement, underscores the importance of dynamic public spaces. Robert is actively involved in community-centric projects, focusing on sustainability and collaborative design methods. His contributions to projects like the Floating University Berlin and R-Urban in Paris showcase his ability to blend urban and ecological aspects in his curatorial endeavors. Committed to transforming societal structures, Robert creates participatory experiences that appeal to diverse audiences.
- From the
- Perspective of the
- Safety Net
- (Artist Resideny)
- In spring 2023, the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig and the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research (UFZ) launched an artist residency program. Four transdisciplinary conceptual artists – Snow Paik, Steph Joyce, Nike Kühn, and Julie Hart – were invited to engage in a three-month exploration of biodiversity and ecological research, blending art and science perspectives.
2. Forest Bathing in Leipzig’s Floodplain Forest: Conducted by Kevin Rozario from the University of Jena and iDiv, this session introduced the practice of forest bathing, focusing on its health benefits, particularly for mental well-being. The experience highlighted ongoing research into how tree diversity affects mental health.
3. Canopy Crane Experience in Leipzig Floodplain Forest: The residency group explored forest biodiversity and ecology from a unique vantage point using a 40-meter tall crane. Accompanied by Teja Kattenborn from Leipzig University, they learned about remote sensing techniques in forest studies, recognizing their scientific and artistic potential.
4. Studio Visits at the Former Cotton Spinning Mill in Leipzig: These visits offered insights into the artists' creative processes and techniques, fostering discussions about art, concepts, and the upcoming final exhibition.
Overall, the residency program fostered a rich dialogue between art and science, deepening understanding of biodiversity and its myriad connections to human life.
Photography: Maximilian Koppernock
Date: February to May 2023
Links: iDiv–Artist Residency