Spring awakening, democracy projects, family activities and flea market at the Forest Art Center
Even in the so-called "non-forest art year," there's plenty going on at the forest art trail near Böllenfalltor. The Association for International Forest Art (Verein für Internationale Waldkunst e. V.) kicks off the new season on May 1, 2025 with its traditional spring awakening , presenting numerous projects related to art, nature, and democracy.
In addition to guided tours and hands-on activities for families, the program includes democratic art projects , international collaborations , educational programs , and forest art flea markets . An overview of all dates and details can be found on the association's website: www.waldkunst.com .
Season opening on May 1st: Spring awakening in the forest
The opening event for this year's forest art season takes place on Wednesday, May 1st , from 2 pm to 5 pm . The Forest Art Association team invites you to a "Spring Awakening" children's construction trailer will also be open – offering a creative activity for families.
Democracy meets art: the “Democratic Forest” project
A highlight of the year is the "Democratic Forest Reader" , which originated as part of Frankfurt RheinMain's World Design Capital 2026. June 17th to 26th, the International Forest Art Center (IWZ) at Ludwigshöhstraße 137 will exhibit around 50 international project ideas on the theme of "Democratic Forest." Performances, readings, and a "forest pulpit" are part of the program, as is the participation of Frankfurt's Antagon Theatre on June 26th with their play "TREES .
Forest art along the Modau
With the new Modau Art Trail, the association is embarking on another pilot project. Starting in September, the first artworks will be installed along the banks of the Modau River Eberstadt
International art project GNAP in September
The international art symposium GNAP (Global Nomadic Art Project) from September 15th to 27th . Twenty artists will work at various locations in southern Hesse – such as the Messel Pit and the Tromm Geocenter – and present their results in an exhibition at the Forest Art Center. Two Wednesday forums will accompany the project.
Family activities in the forest
- Children's construction trailer: From May 4th to September 28th , Sundays from 2 pm to 5 pm (except June 8th).
- Environmental diploma courses: Registrations via the environmental office (Tel. 06151 13-3280)
- Children's art camp in July: Already fully booked.
All services are free, donations are welcome.
Flea market in May
A popular classic is the forest art flea market on the grounds of the IWZ (opposite the Academy of Music):
- Dates: Thursday, May 15th to Sunday, May 18th
- Opening hours: Thu–Sat: 10am–6pm, Sun: 10am–2pm
- Post-sale: Until May 30th during IWZ opening hours
(Mon–Thurs 9am–3pm, Fri 9am–2pm)
Books, jewelry, toys, art, household goods, and much more are available. Donations can be dropped off during opening hours.
Guided tours and information
- Site plan with artist portraits: 3 euros , available at the IWZ or in the Darmstadt shop at Luisenplatz
- Guided tours: Short tours on May 1st (2 pm & 3 pm), private tours can be booked by calling 06151 789 95 37 or emailing info@waldkunst.com
- Catalogue for the last Biennale: 15 euros
Further information on all projects, dates and donation options can be found at:
🌐 www.waldkunst.com
