What is the Crossborder Network?
Since 2007, the »Cross- Border Network of History and Arts« acts as a
cooperation platform for European and non-European universities. The
»travelling« university »FreedomBus« initiates a thinking process about
European and, more so, human values in a context of history, sociology
and political freedom. The network‘s main objective is to convey values,
history and diversity of the European Union. The »Cross-Border-Network«
sets free creativity and innovation in scientific and artistic processes.
In the course of seven years, about 600 students, 60 pupils, 120 educators,
artists, actors and people of other social groups from 12 nations and
16 universities worked on seven projects in various European cities. Additionally,
seven publications, numerous image films and panel discussions
have been realized. In an inter-, trans- and multidisciplinary dialogue, various
cultures meet up to research historic backgrounds and develop a
creative, themed debate. During the course of ten days, innovative educational
methods support interdisciplinarity while living international
heterogeneity. Despite all cultural and linguistic differences an intense
exchange emerges which includes more than just workshops and lectures.
An Intercultural training takes centre stage encouraging social and
regional sustainability and the understanding of cultural differences.
A significant feature of all chosen locations for the projects are their unusual
structure. The participants organize everything necessary on site.
Not only do they bring vacated military bases back to life, they create
workspaces in former prison cells, set up media labs in castles as well as
dining halls, libraries and lecture spaces in prior factory buildings. Historical
influences are ubiquitous and provide the opportunity to experience
regional history actively. At the end of each project an exhibition enriches
the scene, leaving a footprint by generating economic profit for the region
and promoting an exchange of experiences, a sense of community and
paving the way for follow-up projects.
WE ARE NOMADS WE ARE THE CROSS BORDER NETWORK
Cross Border Network Summary (PDF): FR | EN | PL | DE