Werkart

Werkart is a multidisciplinary art organization and platform that coordinates a network of studios, workshops, and project teams across several European cities. It brings together artists, designers, engineers, and craftspeople to collaborate on works that blend hands-on fabrication with conceptual research. The organization supports experimentation by providing access to shared fabrication facilities, technical mentorship, and spaces for presentation and discussion. Its projects span sculpture, installation, public art, and performance, with an emphasis on open processes, collaboration, and inclusive participation.

Founded in 2012 in Berlin by a group of artists and engineers, Werkart aimed to lower barriers to collaborative production and experimental making. The network expanded to include satellite hubs in Amsterdam, Prague, and Lyon, broadening its scope to residencies, education, and distributed co-creation. In 2020 it reorganized as a non-profit association to formalize governance while preserving a member-driven ethos.

Core activities include artist residencies, maker labs, collaborative installations, exhibitions, educational programs, and an online project space for sharing designs, documentation, and open-source tools. The organization emphasizes process transparency and community engagement, often partnering with universities, cultural institutions, and local communities to stage large-scale works and workshops.

Werkart operates as a non-profit with a member-elected board. Funding comes from member dues, project grants, public funding, and collaboration with partner institutions. The network is recognized for fostering cross-disciplinary practice and providing access to equipment such as CNC mills, laser cutters, 3D printers, metalworking, wood, ceramics facilities, and digital fabrication resources.