The publication incorporates an interactive layer: its covers are designed as drawing stencils that can be detached and used by readers. Reflecting the World Design Capital 2026 theme, “Design for Democracy. Atmospheres for a Better Life”, the publication transforms from an informational booklet into a participatory object. It functions simultaneously as a drawing tool—the detachable stencils—and as a surface for drawing. Interspersed throughout the publication are questions about the city, democracy, and design. Readers are invited to respond to these prompts through drawing, using the stencils integrated into the cover.
The drawing methods are based on the research developed in the diploma project Rethinking the Stencil. To accompany the publication, a public workshop was held in SCAPE, the weather museum and public space in Offenbach’s city center, inviting residents to engage with the publication and explore intuitive drawing through movement and stencils.
Photos of publication: Masha Egorova × Fotostudio Matthias Schmalsch
Photos of the workshop: Marie Schwarze