Switzerland is one of the most water-rich countries in Europe, and Zurich with its clear lake and revitalising rivers may seem like a small ecological paradise at first glance. But even here, weather events such as floods and droughts repeatedly affect the everyday routine of the population, and issues such as climate change, pollution and water scarcity also affect our local waters. Water is the essence of all life, it feeds our cities and has always connected people. But what happens when we see water not just as a resource, but as a cultural good?
“Urban Waters” (1-23 February 2025) is dedicated to these aspects, transforming Zurich's Tiefenbrunnen lido into a place of encounter, experience and reflection. Through art installations, performances and workshops, visitors will discover the multifaceted significance of the element of water in the city and in a global context. The exhibition of ten works is complemented by a varied supporting programme of 19 events.
The sound of Lake Zurich
“Urban Waters” focuses on the power of the arts. Because they offer direct access to our emotions and senses, challenge and inspire, invite us to make our own experiences and open up new perspectives.
For example, the Chilean Mapuche artist Neyen Pailamilla explores the spiritual connection between man and river with the video performance “Where Does the Dream Begin?”. Meanwhile, the meditative audio walk “SeeCode” by Diana Fry translates the invisible soundscape of Lake Zurich into a poetic language – visitors are invited to hear and feel the water and perceive it as a living actor rather than a mere backdrop.
In projects such as “Fussbad für alle” by Julia Weber and Mayumi Arai, the Tiefenbrunnen lido is transformed into a space in which lake water is experienced as a resource for care and solidarity.
Jury selection from 65 submitted art projects
The works created especially for this exhibition were selected by a jury consisting of members of the ZHdK's Sustainability Dossier Commission, the Cantonal Office for Waste, Water, Energy and Air AWEL and the City of Zurich's Sports Office. Submissions were made by students, researchers and employees of the ZHdK.
“Urban Waters” is sponsored by the Canton of Zurich as part of the #hallowasser project. hallowasser.ch
In-depth study at the Museum für Gestaltung
The theme of water also sets the tone at the Museum für Gestaltung with its exhibition “Water: Designing for the future” (until 6 April 2025). In the entrance hall of the Toni-Areal, the museum is also showing “Every drop counts! Water in posters” (28.1.-30.3.2025), the museum is also showing design highlights that play with the blue element.
A visit in spring is particularly worthwhile – 22 March is World Water Day.