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Many people are now experiencing the growing right-wing populist, authoritarian and misanthropic tendencies in society and politics very directly in their own civic engagement. The challenges are growing, and with them often a sense of powerlessness. How can we, as a democratic civil society, remain capable of taking action even in times of multiple crises? What strategies can help us to work together reliably, effectively and joyfully, even under pressure?

The artistic urban laboratory Common Grounds invites you to a communal meal in the GfZK garden to discuss social, environmental and political issues, share experiences, learn from one another and develop new perspectives together. The food will be cooked using sunlight and rescued food at the Fiumicina solar kitchen, a social platform for hospitality, community and food justice. Meals are available in return for a voluntary donation to benefit Tafel Leipzig e. V. The event will be supported by the organisations Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie and Konfliktpotential, who will provide contextual input and stimulate discussion with thought-provoking questions. In a brief presentation, they will share insights and tried-and-tested strategies from their work on building organisational resilience.

The event marks the start of a programme series taking place from 31 August to 17 September 2026 on the market square in Paunsdorf. Centred around the Fiumicina solar kitchen, neighbourhood cooking events will be organised in collaboration with local initiatives, organisations and residents, providing a space for meeting and exchange. These events combine environmental issues with the search for forms of community based on solidarity, mutual support and participation.

The project by UmRäumen e. V. is being supported conceptually and in terms of artistic curation by Mascha Fehse and Johanna Ralser, in collaboration with Julia Kurz. It forms part of the artistic urban laboratory ‘Common Grounds – Public Spaces as a Common Good in Times of Multiple Crises’. The project is funded by the Cultural Foundation of the Free State of Saxony. The programme’s implementation in Paunsdorf is also made possible by the East City District budget.

Information on dates and opportunities to get involved can be found at www.stadtkuratorin-leipzig.de and on Instagram at @umraeumen_leipzig