Ecopolis 2020 is moving online
Due to the recent increase of coronavirus infections, we have had to take a difficult decision. This year’s edition will have no live audience, and will move entirely online. We will build a cosy studio on the Kaaitheater stage and stream the lectures and conversations directly to your living room, with opportunities for online interaction.
Why have we taken this decision? Ecopolis is a programme during which audience members generally walk in and out of the auditorium, discuss, and eat and drink together. Such personal live interactions are to be avoided in the current circumstances, and we have therefore chosen to offer you a warm welcome online.
The programme at LABIOMISTA will not take place. Ecopolis Vormingplus Kempen will take place as scheduled at CC ’t Schaliken in Herentals, though at reduced capacity.
Buy your ticket for the online edition.
You already bought tickets?
If you bought a ticket for only part of the day at Ecopolis, on Friday you will be sent a zoom link to take part for the whole day.
If you bought a ticket for both the morning and afternoon, or a Labiomista ticket, you will be sent a zoom link and receive a € 5 refund.
Note: Ecopolis will be interpreted simultaneously into Dutch, French and English.
Have an inspiring day!
AGAIN(ST) NATURE
Anno 2020. Nature is on fire, from Australia to the Ardennes. Forests are felled, no more insects on the windshield, concrete everywhere, a million species are in danger of extinction. A virus turns the world upside down. The exploitation of nature is threatening our existence. Vulnerable groups here and in the South are facing even harder times.
How much longer do we saw off the very branch that supports us? Or do we change course?
Ecopolis 2020 puts the finger on the pulse and looks ahead. What are the post-corona challenges? How do we feel part of nature again? How do we restore the balance? How does this support a vigorous climate and nature policy? Which transitions are necessary ― urban, agricultural, etc. ― for a society that respects people and nature? And gives everyone prospect of a good life.
Koen Vanmechelen is selected as one of the event's participants;
11h - Corona lessons for a resilient society
The corona crisis has taught us that you cannot just cut down forests or deal carelessly with animals endlessly. Outsourcing all production to low-wage countries is also no longer an option. How do we build resilient societies that are ecologically and socially durable?
A panel discussion with Myriam Dumortier (biodiversity researcher at INBO), Koen Vannmechelen (contemporary conceptual artist), Jan Rotmans (transition thinker) and Dirk Draulans (biologist).
Subsequently: spoken word intervention by Yousra Benfquih (lawyer, poet and columnist).
more information on Ecopolis.be
ECOPOLIS at LABIOMISTA (cancelled due to corona)
In 2019 artist Koen Vanmechelen launched LABIOMISTA, an evolving work of art situated on the foundations of a former zoo in Genk (BE).
Vanmechelen is one of the most versatile thinkers of these times. He works at the confluence of art, science, philosophy and community. LABIOMISTA is the embodiment of his artistic and philosophical vision. It is based on the belief in art as a driver of mutual understanding and as a guide in the search for answers to the major challenges of the 21st century, the relationship between nature and culture and in particular the development of sustainable communities.
The 24-hectare park is a permanent and evolving work of art, a garden of order and chaos, an arena of culture and nature. It invites, challenges and inspires. It is a hotbed for a wealth of new ideas, creations, projects and collaborations; and a meeting place for all the species of this world.
Program (cancelled due to corona)
10:00 free access to the park
12:00: Doors open Studio Koen Vanmechelen
12:15: Welcome
12:30 - 14:00 Livestream Ecopolis
Meet the Animal
For centuries we have been intrigued by animals and have used them in our stories. Who does not know Reynard the Fox? Only recently have we learned how small the differences between humans and animals are. What does an understanding relationship with animals with recognition of their own abilities mean?
A conversation that explores new paths with: Eva Meijer (writer, philosopher and artist), Hans Van Dyck (professor Behavioral Biology), Hendrik Schoukens (environmental lawyer), Lisa Tostado (Heinrich Böllstiftung, which recently released the Insect Atlas).
14:00 LABIOMISTA, introduction by artist Koen Vanmechelen
14:30 Conversation ‘Are we necessary?’ The position of the human animal.
What is the position of the human animal on this planet. Are we predators or are we the prey?
A debate by Koen Vanmechelen (artist), Ignace Schops (ecologist) , Lara Klaassen (director Centrum voor Natuur en Milieu Educatie) and Glenn Deliège (environment philosopher). Moderator; investigative journalist Peter Dupont
16:00 -17:30 free access to the park
