Frischer Wind in Oberzeiring

The Fresh Wind exhibition in Oberzeiring shows the results of the four-year collaboration between “Human Cities” for the “SMOTIES – Small and remote places” project. Ten small, remote European towns that are affected by strong rural exodus were selected for the project. The selection criterion was their special importance as guardians of material and immaterial culture. The aim is to enhance the remote areas through joint cultural and creative activities with the residents and to develop them into contemporary, livable places.

For Austria, teachers and students from the Design & Communication Institute at FH JOANNEUM Graz worked together with the residents of the Upper Styrian town of Oberzeiring. Oberzeiring is particularly notable for its history as what was once the largest silver mine in Styria. What was also convincing was the commitment of some so-called “local heroes” and numerous associations that actively strive to strengthen the community.

The town's most important square, the market square, was worked on. In the future, it will once again be reserved primarily for pedestrians. In joint workshops, the transformation of the village square from a parking lot and a turning point for buses to a place with a variety of recreational qualities was developed.

In addition to the Styrian town of Oberzeiring, the exhibition also shows projects from nine other selected locations in Europe.

Opening: 02.05.2024, 7 p.m.
Speakers: Beate Engelhorn (Haus der Architektur), Anke Strittmatter (Institut Design & Kommunikation, FH Joanneum), Hannes Pfandl (Schaubergwerkmuseum Oberzeiring), Annalinda de Rosa (Design Department, Politecnico di Milano)