When art, culture and transformation come together: A look back at the transform.NRW symposium.

Transformation needs images we don’t just understand, but feel deeply. This was exactly the starting point of the transform.NRW symposium.

“Where are we now? Where do we want to go? What are we willing to dare?” – with these questions, the symposium at the Bundeskunsthalle Bonn opened two days full of exchange, inspiration and courageous visions for the future. Practitioners from design, research, politics, business and civil society came together to rethink social-ecological transformation through art, culture and design.

For us at the co-do lab, it was a special space: filled with people who translate complexity into images, stories and emotions – and who can therefore offer exactly what transformation needs most.

Head, heart and hands

Together with my colleague Stephan Schaller, I joined the panel “Networks, Accomplices and Other Allies” to introduce the co-do lab and talk about why transformation only succeeds when head, heart and hands work together.

Our work is rooted in nature-based experiences – because connection and shared experiences create the foundation that enables people to move from intention to action. That’s why it was so important for us to meet likeminded others who turn data and facts into meaningful narratives and use creativity to offer orientation and courage.

Transformation needs images that move us

Prof. Manfred Fischedick (Wuppertal Institute) emphasized in his remarks that we are facing an action gap—one that requires collective strength and the courage to take a significant leap forward. It was a reminder of what this moment calls for: transforming complexity into momentum, uncertainty into curiosity, and intentions into shared action.

How art can translate issues such as, for example, the overproduction of the textile industry into emotional experiences became clear at the end of the event, through the powerful dance performance “Tree Tree” by Japanese dancer and choreographer Kenji Shinohe. These kinds of images stay with us – and can move people to take action.

What we at the co-do lab contribute

At the co-do lab, we also aim to create experiences that touch people – and spark inspiration and momentum for the next steps of their transformation journey. At Gut Einern in Wuppertal, we enable teams to shape their future actively – through deep, shared experiences with others and nature.

Whether in our co-creation kitchen, around the campfire, in the co-do mobile or in the permaculture garden: Here, teams find spaces to think differently, decide more clearly and move from intention to action. Conversations turn into ideas. Ideas turn into impact – curious, bold, effective.

Ready for co-creation?

Do you want to experience transformation instead of merely discussing it? Are you looking for formats that connect people and spark real innovation? Do you want to prototype, explore and prepare your organisation for a future that lasts?

Then let’s explore what you’re ready to dare and how we can work together.

We co-create formats tailored to your team, your organisation or your city – so you can try out new approaches together and move into meaningful action. From team days to strategy and storytelling workshops to multi-stakeholder sessions with partners or clients.

Get in touch – we’re excited to support and shape your transformation journey alongside you.

– Author: Eva Rudolf