"Where in the city do you dare to close your eyes?"

The project “Die Stadtführerin” is an initiative that aims to make patriarchal structures in Cologne visible and tangible. Curated by Katharina Tillmann, Sarah Carbow and Janka Kenk, the project was completed in the form of a printed magazine with an integrated folding map. Cologne initiatives, artists and citizens were included in the participatory concept and their own experiences in the city were shared in an open call. The city guide comprises three parts: personal perspectives of city residents, queer-feminist critiques on topics such as sex work, mobility and architecture as well as creative city walks that irritate the view of the city and promote an alternative experience. 

Three Women reading the magazine.
© Marie Laforge

‘Where in the city do you dare to close your eyes?’ or “Where do you feel visible?” or openly “How does the city of Cologne feel to you?” asked Die Stadtführer*in. Residents, artists, researchers, authors and activists responded with their projects, reports or newly edited contributions. Instead of listing historical buildings, restaurants and shopping streets, the magazine's eight chapters talk about visibility, bodies, mobility, the culture of remembrance, safe spaces, favourite places, toilets and much more. 

Applicant
"Die Stadtführer*innen" / c/o Katharina Tillmann

location
cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia

Project period
2022

Topics
Feminism, urbanism, racism

Website
diestadtfuehrerin.com

Poster with the inscription: She speaks back, the city
© Peter Wendebourg, Text Jacob Hess