Sculptures, installations or memorials do not only shape a cityscape but provoke and maintain a public cultural discourse. Compared to other cities like Berlin, Johannesburg or Nairobi very few artistic interventions or public art works are found in Kampala. While the city authorities are strictly regulating the visual landscape, the interest in art in public space is increasing on the side of artists and art organizations. A panel with representatives from authorities, art organizations and artists will discuss the situation, possibilities and limitations of artistic interventions and why these are important for the identity of urban spaces.
Following the theme "The City is our Space" the panel wants to explore different ways of involving artists and organizations in the visual and urban planning of their city and enhancing the communication with the people living in the city. Art in public space helps to shape a city's identity and visual attraction, but also generates a feeling of ownership and connectedness. The panel will discuss questions as - How can public art create a positive impact on the city and its people? How can artists cooperate with the city (KCCA) to develop their ideas? How can public art be involved in the strategies of urban planning and even play a key role in it? 
The Art Forum takes place in contextual preparation to this year's edition of the LaBa! Arts Festival "The City is our Space", happening on 12 of June at Kisementi Parking Lot and Kabega Road in Nsambya, an art festival looking for artistic interventions and interactions with urban spaces and its inhabitants, supported by KCCA.
 
Short version:
Compared to other cities like Berlin, Johannesburg or Nairobi very few artistic interventions or public art works are found in Kampala. While the city authorities are strictly regulating the visual landscape, the interest in art in public space is increasing on sides of artists and arts organizations. A panel with representatives from authorities, arts organizations and artists will discuss the situation, possibilities and limitations of artistic interventions and why these are important for the identity of urban spaces.
 
The panelists: Faisal Kiwewa (Bayimba Cultural Foundation), Collin Sekajugo (Weaver Bird Arts Festival), Rocca Gutteridge (32° East), Carolin Christgau (GZK/ UGCS), and  a representative of the directorate of physical planning of KCCA.