From July onwards, a large-scale net will stretch across the Konstablerwache. With "A Sky Full of Hope – Earthtime 1.78 Frankfurt", American artist Janet Echelman is creating a monumental installation in the heart of the city as part of World Design Capital Frankfurt Rhine-Main 2026. The work, developed especially for Frankfurt, is intended to be permanent – and thus have an impact beyond the event year. After Porto, it is only the second permanent location for one of Echelman's works in Europe. Konstablerwache, previously primarily a transport hub and market square, will thus gain a new visual and atmospheric accent. The net reacts to wind and light, changing its appearance depending on the time of day and turning the urban space itself into a stage. A place of passage is to become a place to linger. The title "A Sky Full of Hope" refers to Frankfurt's international character. The city is considered one of the most diverse in Germany; people from numerous nations live and work here. The net symbolises connection and cohesion. Head of Cultural Affairs Ina Hartwig speaks of a visible sign of the World Design Capital's leitmotif, "Design for Democracy – Atmospheres for a better life". Art can transform a place not only aesthetically, but also socially. Head of Economic Affairs Stephanie Wüst also points out the significance for the city centre and tourism. With this installation, Frankfurt is sending a signal of innovation and international appeal. Art and design are understood here as instruments of long-term urban development. For the Frankfurt project, Echelman developed her own colour palette, in which warm and cool tones are deliberately balanced. The balance of colours is intended to reflect the interplay of different cultural perspectives as well as the relationship between humans and nature. The installation is part of the artist's "Earthtime" series, which deals with global interconnectedness and interdependence: changes in one place never remain without consequences for others. The project was realised in close cooperation between the Department of Culture and Science and the City Marketing Unit. The aim is to use World Design Capital 2026 to initiate a project that will continue beyond the event year. With "A Sky Full of Hope", the Konstablerwache is to be permanently reimagined as a central meeting place.
