ODBK is excited to announce that our colleague, curator, and researcher Anna Galeeva has reached the third stage of her research project, “Social Architecture as a Tool for Building Horizontal Art Communities.” This research focuses on exploring innovative methods of interaction within artistic communities and their impact on the development of contemporary art.

The primary objective of this research is to formulate at least five principles of Social Architecture that can effectively support the growth and sustainability of modern creative communities. The study began in 2022 with an analysis of art residencies and non-profit organizations in Berlin and aims to develop a methodology for working with contemporary creative communities based on Social Architecture principles by 2026. The overall goal is to create a guide titled “Working with Modern Creative Communities Based on the Principles of Social Architecture,” which will be published in 2026. This guide will serve as a resource for curators, community organizers, and cultural institutions seeking to foster horizontal, inclusive, and dynamic art communities.

This research is rooted in and continues important early 21st-century studies, including “Collaborative Art: A Transformational Force within Communities” by Melissa G. Bublitz et al. (2014), which explores the impact of collaborative art on social change, “Beautiful Places: The Role of Perceived Aesthetic Beauty in Community Satisfaction” by Richard Florida et al. (2011), which highlights the significance of aesthetic experiences in community building, and “The Social Architecture of Communities” by Peter Hinchens (2016), which emphasizes the creation of online and offline community spaces. Through this comparative study, Anna aims to bridge the insights from Berlin’s multicultural and socially innovative communities with the emerging creative hubs in Budapest, Vienna, and Warsaw. The findings will contribute to the development of strategic frameworks for supporting urban communities and fostering cultural exchange.

Last update in the research happened in Hungary in Febrary 2025 and it was supported by Culture Moves Europe program. Budapest’s art communities play a crucial role in social inclusion and urban development, promoting cultural exchange and strengthening community bonds through various forms of artistic expression. Initiatives such as aqb, falu, 11_11, and FKSE illustrate how art facilitates dialogue between diverse social groups, creating a sense of community. Anna’s research in Budapest focuses on four key areas: the impact of art projects on social inclusion, the economic impact of art communities, the role of digital platforms in community development, and the influence of public space design on cultural interactions. By comparing art communities in Berlin and Budapest, the research aims to reveal common trends and unique features that will be valuable for developing urban community strategies worldwide.

Anna invites artists, curators, and art managers to participate in this research! She is looking for participants who are willing to share their experiences and perspectives on developing horizontal communities in art. As a token of appreciation for your time and community engagement, Anna is offering individual consultations on your art project. This is a unique opportunity to receive expert advice and guidance to help you develop your creative vision.

To participate, please fill out the form here: Participation Form. (https://forms.gle/WaWYeZ7DyaeRxg8n9)

For more details and any questions, please contact: galeevacurator@gmail.com

Join this impactful research and be part of the change in contemporary art! Feel free to share this news and invite your friends from the art community to participate!