What we have to learn is so difficult and yet so simple and clear: it is normal to be different.
Richard von Weizsäcker
Theatre, dance, music and visual arts: at Art Obscura e.V. in Mülheim an der Ruhr, people with and without disabilities create art together. For over 25 years, the association has been proving that creativity connects people – whether in workshops, at spectacular light art festivals or at the legendary Broicher Schlossnacht. Because here, it's not the disability that counts, but the talent.
Art Obscura e.V. is a non-profit association based in Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany, dedicated to promoting inclusive cultural projects by and for people with disabilities. The association was founded in 1996, initially as an artists' initiative, and was officially established as a registered association in May 2000.
Goals and philosophy
The focus is on people's artistic work – not their disabilities. Art Obscura aims to provide a special forum for inclusive art and to counteract the exclusion of disabled artists from public cultural life. The association's mission statement is based on a quote from Richard von Weizsäcker: "It is normal to be different."
Offers and activities
- Workshops in the fields of visual arts, theatre, contemporary dance, music/sound workshops and photography
- Broicher Schlossnacht – an annual festival with international artists, artistry, theatre and live music
- KunstMachenLeben – integrative light art festival at the Mülheim open-air theatre
- stagefestival – comedy and cabaret festival
Exhibitions and art events in public spaces
The courses bring together people with and without disabilities, young and old, long-time residents and newcomers – a reflection of social diversity.
