Young people can learn spray techniques and create their own designs on August 14th
Under the title "Art, Expression and Responsibility in Public Space," the "Rauschzeit – Mobile Addiction Prevention" project invites young people and young adults to an open graffiti workshop on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Karolinenplatz in Darmstadt. The workshop is free of charge and takes place from 4 pm to 8 pm . Registration is not required.
Together with experienced graffiti artists from Antigrau, participants can gain initial experience with spray paint, learn different techniques, and create their own designs. No prior knowledge is necessary. The focus is on creative expression and the joy of creating.
The workshop is part of the project “Rauschzeit – Mobile Suchtprävention” of the ROPE eV network. The offer, funded by the city of Darmstadt, is aimed at young people in public spaces and combines creative activities with topics such as health, identity development and addiction prevention.
Between art and vandalism
The discussion will also address the unique role of graffiti. This art form exists in the tension between creative expression and illegal vandalism. Questions such as "Who owns the city?" and the boundaries between legal art and illegal activity will therefore also be discussed.
The artists of Antigrau not only provide practical techniques but also insights into graffiti culture and demonstrate how creativity can be expressed legally and responsibly. Furthermore, there will be opportunities for discussions about youth culture, leisure activities, mental health, and addiction prevention.
“Graffiti is far more than just paint on a wall. It’s expression, attitude, and engagement with one’s surroundings,” explains Mayor Barbara Akdeniz. The initiative aims to offer young people a space where they can experiment creatively and explore the question of “how responsibility, freedom, and expression are connected.”.
Graffiti workshop “Art, expression and responsibility in public space”
When: Friday, August 14, 2026, 4 pm to 8 pm
Where: Karolinenplatz, Darmstadt
Participation: free, no registration required
Organizer: Rauschzeit – Mobile Addiction Prevention by Netzwerk ROPE eV
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
