Organizer Information
The competition is organized by the City of Fürth (Stadt Fürth), specifically through its Mayor’s Office and Press Department. Fürth, located in Bavaria, Germany, is a historically significant city with over 1,000 years of documented history and a strong commitment to cultural programming in public space. Through initiatives such as “Fürther Glanzlichter” (Fürth Highlights), the municipality promotes contemporary artistic practices that engage directly with the urban environment. The event integrates art, architecture, and public participation, transforming the city into a temporary exhibition space for light-based works.
Title & Description
Fürther Glanzlichter 2026 – Light Art Competition
Fürther Glanzlichter 2026 is an open international competition inviting artists to create site-specific light installations across multiple urban locations in Fürth. The event will take place over two evenings: Friday, 6 November and Saturday, 7 November 2026, during which selected works will be presented to the public.
Artists are invited to conceptually and visually transform designated buildings, facades, and public spaces using light as the primary medium. A total of 12 projects will be selected by a professional jury.
The curatorial theme for 2026 is:
“Anniversaries and Commemorative Days”
This theme reflects Fürth’s historical identity, as November marks both the city’s first documented mention over 1,000 years ago and its elevation to a first-class city over 200 years ago. Artists are encouraged to interpret anniversaries occurring in 2026—ranging from historical figures to technological milestones—and translate them into compelling visual narratives.
Each installation must be concise and structured, with a maximum presentation duration of 4 minutes. Sound elements are generally discouraged and require special approval.
Categories
- Light Art
- Media Art
- Public Art
- Installation Art
- Urban Intervention
Eligibility
- Open to international artists and artist collectives
- No explicit age restrictions
- Applicants must demonstrate the ability to realize technically feasible, site-specific installations
- Experience in working with light, projection, or public installations is strongly recommended
Artists may submit applications for multiple locations.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Production budget reimbursement up to €6,000 (incl. VAT)
- Covers materials, equipment rental, travel-related production costs, accommodation, assistants, and other expenses
- The budget must be pre-calculated and is binding
- Artist fee: €1,400 (incl. VAT)
- Covers all services, including concept, planning, installation, supervision, and dismantling
- Public Audience Award: €800
- Awarded to the most popular installation
- Electricity costs covered by the City of Fürth
Note: If project costs exceed €6,000, the artist must cover the difference or secure external sponsorship (subject to prior approval).
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Project proposal (short concept)
- Detailed cost calculation (mandatory)
- Portfolio / previous work
- Technical description of the installation
- Set up and dismantle timeline (if available)
Key constraints:
- Maximum runtime: 4 minutes
- Projects must be feasible within the proposed budget
- Installations must be suitable for an outdoor public space
How to Apply?
Applications should be submitted digitally via email: veranstaltungen@fuerth.de
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 18 June 2026
- Notification of Results: 13 July 2026
- Participant Presentation (optional): 5 November 2026
- Event Dates: 6–7 November 2026
Location
Fürth, Bavaria, Germany
Additional Details
- Selected Locations:
A predefined list of sites is provided (e.g., Helmplatz, Hallplatz, Fürther Freiheit, Uferpromenade, Stadthalle façade, Rathaus tower, Kulturforum courtyard, etc.). Applicants must design their project for one or more of these locations. - Artist Responsibilities:
- Full responsibility for installation and dismantling
- Restoration of the site to its original condition after the event
- On-site presence during the event (both evenings) to engage with the public
- Technical Conditions:
- Electricity is provided
- Equipment should preferably be rented rather than purchased
- Coordination with the technical director is required
- Legal & Rights:
- The City of Fürth retains the right to photograph and film the works for unlimited promotional use
- Jury decisions are final and not subject to appeal
- Important Limitation:
Musical accompaniment is generally not permitted unless explicitly approved.