This performative excursion is conceived as a collective artistic field study situated between administrative, abstract boundaries and physical experience. We explore mapping, landscape and ecological interdependencies.
We examine the difference between an abstract line on a map and its physical counterpart on the ground. Our route takes us along the outer boundary of a nature reserve. The boundary line thus becomes a path: we move along this boundary, always remaining outside the protected area.
The starting point for the work is a preparatory phase based exclusively on map material. Biotope maps, satellite images, terrain models and cadastral data serve as the basis for route planning. A site visit in advance is deliberately not carried out. The actual conditions of the terrain – vegetation, obstacles, detours or the terrain’s resistance – remain unknown until the moment of being physically present.
The boundary of the conservation area is interpreted as a set of instructions: an invisible line that provides orientation whilst simultaneously creating unpredictability: does it run along a path, through the forest, or even across a lake? When will we have to take detours? To what extent can we physically follow the conceptual directive?
On our hike, we’ll map, observe, and listen more closely. Magnifying glasses, pens, and paper will be provided to help us explore or surroundings. There will be time for participants to engage with the biotope on their own. Artistic or scientific approaches are welcome, but not required. Mushroom tea will be served during the lunch break.
Max. participants: 8
Cost: To avoid no-shows, a participation fee of €10 will be charged, which goes to the festival.
Accessibility: No
Languages: German, English, Turkish
Registration at: here
Tickets will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please bring: Sturdy footwear, rain gear, drinks, snacks, mosquito/tick repellent.
Optional: Favorite pen, camera, audio recorder, or similar.
Please note: To avoid injury to yourself and damage to the environment, please follow the instructions of the tour guide. At times, we will be leaving the paved paths. Only those who are good walkers should participate.
For further information, please use the contact form at: ars-eco-lab.com/kontakt
Ben Nurgenc is a concept-based artist and mycologist. His artistic practice operates at the intersection of art, ecology, and field research. At its center is the artistic contextualization of biotope explorations, walking, and scouting processes as performative practice. Drawing from his work in biotope mapping, he investigates movement, observation, and mapping as autonomous artistic methods. He understands walking and scouting not as research, but as a practice in which perception, movement, and situated knowledge converge. His works emerge through direct contact with landscape. Alongside this, he collects notes, maps, photographs, and found objects, which are incorporated into a growing archive. Presented in exhibitions, the archive makes ecological contexts experientially accessible.
Webpage: bnurgenc.com
Instagram: @ben_nurgenc
Date & Time: 4. October 2026, 11 am to 4 pm
Meeting point: Schönwalde train station at 11:10 am
or for those arriving by public transport: Berlin Gesundbrunnen at 10:20 am
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Photo: Ben Nurgenc © 2025