ZEW Launches Artist-in-Residence Programme with Stefan Karrer

How can the major questions shaping our future be explored not only through scientific research, but also through artistic experience? This is the question addressed by the “Un/Calculated Futures”, an artist-in-residence programme through which ZEW Mannheim will welcome artist Stefan Karrer to the institute for four weeks in autumn 2026.

During his residency, Karrer will work closely with ZEW researchers, exploring economic and societal challenges of the future – from innovation and digitalisation to climate policy, Europe and global transformation processes. Conversations, observations and shared reflections will form the basis for artistic works that offer new perspectives on scientific findings.

“Through his artistic exploration of digital infrastructures, algorithmic processes and the impact of technological developments on society and individuals, Stefan Karrer brings a perspective that will enrich the dialogue with economic research in a particularly valuable way,” says ZEW President Professor Achim Wambach, PhD, about the new partnership.

With “Un/Calculated Futures”, ZEW is creating a space for dialogue between art and science. The programme encourages participants to question established assumptions, develop new perspectives and explore the boundaries between analytical thinking and artistic imagination. After all, not all futures can be calculated – some must first be imagined.

The results of the residency will be presented to the public at ZEW in November 2026, at the end of Karrer’s stay.