Judicial Court At Work
In the heart of Cologne, on the 6th of August, 2025, a significant step towards inclusive artistic education was taken. The broadcast of Livaja's demands could be heard echoing through Dillenburger Street, Kalk, and throughout the city, advocating for a place for artists with disabilities to receive further education.
Livaja, one of the artists involved in Kunsthaus KAT18, is spearheading this initiative. His demands are being broadcast through a megaphone, reaching a wide audience, and gaining the support of Culture Department Head Juana von Stein.
Kunsthaus KAT18, a beacon of inclusivity in Cologne, serves as an art space hosting ateliers for about 24 artists with disabilities. The venue offers workshops and studio spaces where artists with disabilities work alongside others, fostering artistic development and community participation.
The lower floor of the "X-SÜD" art house, currently being worked on by the Berlin architect collective "raumlabor", will soon be converted for independent learning of artistically gifted individuals. This space will feature barrier-free access and considerate room layouts, making it a welcoming environment for all.
The next step for the "X-SÜD" art house will be the installation of an academic, outsourced art class for people with and without disabilities. This will be the first of its kind in Germany, further cementing Cologne's commitment to inclusivity in the arts.
The choice of the Dillenburger Street location for Livaja's art action was intentional, as it highlights ongoing efforts to address the lack of inclusive art spaces in the city.
Kunsthaus KAT18 and Kubist e.V., a Cologne-based organization known for promoting inclusion through cultural and artistic projects for people with disabilities, are driving forces behind the development of Kunsthaus KAT18 and the "X-SÜD" art house.
It is worth noting that the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities mandates the right to education, including further education, for people with disabilities. This initiative in Cologne aligns with this global commitment.
Six neurodivergent artists are expected to move into studio spaces at the "X-SÜD" art house soon, marking another milestone in Cologne's journey towards inclusive artistic education. The city, along with the state, currently lacks an institution offering inclusive access to artistic education. With the development of Kunsthaus KAT18 and the "X-SÜD" art house, this gap is being addressed.
This article, written by Lars Fleischmann, highlights the progress Cologne is making towards a more inclusive artistic landscape. The inception of Kunsthaus Kalk, the ongoing efforts towards inclusivity, and the advocacy of artists like Livaja, are all steps towards a city where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate in and contribute to the arts.
References: [1] Stadtrevue [2] [3] [4] Various sources [5] Stadtrevue
- Livaja's initiative, aimed at creating an education space for disabled artists, has gained the support of Culture Department Head Juana von Stein and could impact the lifestyles of many artists in Cologne.
- The inclusion of fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, relationships, pets, travel, cars, and shopping workshops within Kunsthaus KAT18's educational program signifies a broader approach to artistic development and inclusion.
- In the near future, the "X-SÜD" art house will also feature a shopping area, providing opportunities for artists to sell their work and enjoy a sustainable livelihood while fostering community relationships.
- As the project progresses, the greater Cologne area will not only become known for its inclusivity in the arts but also for its fashion-forward, accessible lifestyle.
- With the commitment to inclusivity in artistic education demonstrated by Kunsthaus KAT18 and the "X-SÜD" art house, Cologne sets an example for other cities around the world to follow, ensuring a brighter future for artists with disabilities and a more united, vibrant society.
