Encounter Trees

Encounter Trees – Modena x Karlsruhe is a collaborative project between the two media art cities of Modena and Karlsruhe. It explores the fascinating relationship between humans, nature, and design, with a particular focus on the work of Italian architect Cesare Leonardi (1935–2021), whose interdisciplinary practice blends design research with artistic experimentation.

In Italy, Encounter Trees was presented as part of the Alberi Festival, which took place from April 7 to 13 in Modena. Within the exhibition Modena incontra Karlsruhe – la città ventaglio (Modena meets Karlsruhe – the Fan City), the two UNESCO Creative Cities engaged in a creative dialogue. The Karlsruhe contribution highlighted the tradition of green urban development as well as the technical aesthetics and poetic dimensions of contemporary research on trees. Various formats were presented, including a video produced specifically for the festival, photographs, and installations based on innovative research projects. In combination with works by Italian architects Cesare Leonardi and Franca Stagi, a dynamic interplay of differing visions of urban and arboreal coexistence emerged.

In Karlsruhe, the exhibition was part of ArchitekturZeit and was held at the Fasanenschlösschen in the Fasanengarten. Leonardi’s interdisciplinary approach was brought to life through original drawings, prototypes, photographs, and multimedia installations. Visitors could freely explore the different thematic areas and rediscover the interactions between design, nature, and urban landscapes within the unique setting of the Fasanenschlösschen. The exhibition (June 27 to July 5) was complemented by interactive workshops, inviting participants to engage practically with Leonardi’s design principles and connect directly with the trees surrounding the Fasanengarten.

A complementary dimension to this dialogue is offered by the City of Trees initiative, which invites citizens, community groups, and organizations to identify and celebrate trees of particular significance – whether for their botanical features, historical relevance, or cultural and social value. Through an interactive digital platform, users can explore and propose notable trees within their urban landscape, fostering a deeper connection between people and nature. The platform not only encourages local engagement but also facilitates global dialogue, enabling users to compare urban green heritage across cities and continents. This initiative underscores the role of nature in urban identity and cultural memory, while promoting sustainability, awareness, and cross-cultural exchange.