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.
- What if...?
- (Artist Resideny)
- In the spring of 2024, Aletta Bonn, Berlin State Commissioner for Nature Conservation and Landscape Preservation, invited four artists to participate in a three-month residency program. The goal was to learn more about Berlin’s urban nature and to develop artistic works in collaboration with scientists from various fields of ecology. The selected artists were Lena Gätjens, a performative artist; Nicole Schuck, who closely integrates biodiversity research into her practice; Klaus Bock, an artist who examines the role and presence of insects in his work; and Nilra Zoraloglu, a material-based artist.
The initial meeting took place at the Institute of Zoology, Freie Universität Berlin, where both scientists and artists presented their working methods and projects. Potential collaborations were discussed, and initial ideas for artistic works were developed. This meeting laid the foundation for partnerships combining scientific perspectives and artistic viewpoints.
2. Early Bloomers and Greenhouses (Botanical Garden):
The second excursion led participants to the Berlin Botanical Garden. Guided by Dr. Gerald Parolly, they explored the outdoor areas and learned about the challenges of climate change and plant care. After touring the outdoor sections, Rebecca Rongstock presented the fungi and lichen collection and the soil laboratory. The day concluded with a visit to a greenhouse where experiments with spring onions and clover were being conducted.
3. Park at Südgelände:
The third excursion took participants to the Natur-Park Schöneberger Südgelände. Guided by Prof. Ingo Kowarik, they explored the former railway marshalling yard, experiencing the unique combination of technology, art, and nature. A moment of silence was encouraged, inviting participants to close their eyes and listen to the sounds of the environment.
4. Strategies, Institutes, and New Perspectives:
The fourth meeting focused on the release of the Biodiversity Strategy at the Botanical Garden. The Freie Universität Berlin, including the Botanical Garden, aims to actively contribute to environmental conservation. The new strategy, presented on May 22, 2024, International Day for Biological Diversity, focuses on promoting urban flora and fauna on campus. Workshops and lectures were offered, including contributions from residency artists Lena Gätjens and Klaus Bock, who provided new perspectives on urban life and the relationship between science and art.
This residency fostered a rich dialogue between art and science, deepening the understanding of Berlin’s urban nature and its myriad connections to human life.