(re)connecting.earth

Olaf Holzapfel: Swarm, straw-installation, 2026

It is located at the south entrance to Jean Nouvel’s Eaux Vives train station. This swarm takes the form of a nest made of straw-like, repetitive bodies. This work plays with chance and non-chance to evoke the habitat of a wild swarm of living organisms, such as bees. At first glance, there appears to be a contrast between the station’s rational, inorganic architecture of repetitive glass blocks and this organic form. On the other hand, both works are based on the repetition of repetitive elements. And they are similar: places of entry and exit. The principle of repetition and clustering into spaces is a universal principle—that is, in both directions. Even the seemingly rational, geometrically composed architectures are part of the material world and the evolved space. It is also a matter of our decision as to how we construct, settle, and maintain such swarm-like formations. Perhaps they simply found this spot in the station’s entrance area suitable. After all, it is a transitional space, and since it is very easy to get there and come and go, it becomes a visible sign, like most train stations.

(re)connecting.earth – Sensitive Resources
Art and urban nature biennale

with: Ana Alenso, Monira Al Qadiri, Yuri Ancarani, Khalil Berro, Mabe Bethônico, Seba Calfuqueo, Tanja Engelberts, Caroline Etter & Laura Spozio, Séverin Guelpa, Mathias Kessler, Olaf Holzapfel, Jeewi Lee, Christian Jankowski, Gabriela Löffel, Gabriel Massan, Philip C. Reiner, Soya the Cow

The Biennale is based on the co-creation process in Phase 1.

The Biennale will be held in public spaces across the Grand Genève. It offers an artistic and scientific journey linking works of art, cultural institutions, and natural sites from Geneva to the center of Annemasse. Based on a sustainable mobility plan combining tram (line 17), Léman Express, cycling, and walking, the itinerary also follows the Voie Verte, taking into account the different modes of transportation used by the public. The route focuses in particular on the area between La Comédie and the Villa du Parc, passing through the municipalities of Chêne-Bougeries and Thônex.

https://reconnecting.earth/de/

Opening:

28.04.
Ouverture et Rencontres Comédie de Genève

16h00
Symposium réunissant artistes, chercheur·euses et partenaires du projet

18h00
Ouverture et prises de parole officielles