(text is machine translated by DeepL)
Creation of the book and the methodology used
The aim was not only to collect data and analyse facts, but above all to capture the emotion, rawness and authenticity of places that live their own lives outside the spotlight of big cultural institutions.
Methodologically, the creation of the book is based on a wide range of empirical approaches whose common denominator is discovery. Students walked the streets, visited galleries, music clubs and improvised cultural venues. They interviewed artists, curators, activists and other creators who are the drivers of Brno's independent cultural scene. The interviews revealed not only the stories and visions of cultural amateurs and professionals, but also the challenges they face in Brno.
On-site observation allowed students to see the pace at which these places live, how they adapt to their inhabitants, and how they resonate with history and the present in the context of the city. All of these perceptions were then subjected to analysis, which helped unravel the complex relationships between the key actors, the places with their unmistakable genius loci, and the artistic community.
The book is divided into thematic chapters, each reflecting a particular aspect of Brno's independent culture. The chapters are structured around specific places that contain stories of people, communities and their creative energy, enthusiasm, improvisation and determination. Each page of this publication is an imaginary stop during an endless wandering through Brno. The cultural map that accompanies the book is both a guide and a challenge - it invites readers to set out to discover these places for themselves and add their own experiences to the mosaic of Brno culture.
The visual value of the book is supported by imaginative graphic design that allows readers to feel the energy and authenticity of each place. In addition, all chapters are accompanied by audio - through Spotify codes, it is possible to listen to music associated with the places and interviews. Thus, the visual and audio identity of the book become key elements in telling the story of Brno's independent culture.
The contribution of the book and further exploration of independent culture in BrnoBrno's independent culture forms an important part of the city's identity and has significant impacts on various areas of urban life. It is the soul of the city that manifests itself as a tireless engine of creativity, innovation and generates new ideas and projects that can also have positive economic and social impacts.
The publication "UNDERCOVER" is a tool for understanding and making visible the importance of the independent cultural scene in the future development of the city. It shows that independent culture not only contributes to the aesthetic and creative value of a city, but also promotes community life and social cohesion. Abandoned buildings, neglected yards or unused spaces gain new life thanks to the energy of individuals and communities who see in them the potential for creativity and self-fulfilment.
The hypothesis that these cultural activities can be key to the revitalization of a city will be further tested in the following semester. Based on this idea, students will develop designs for a Centre for Independent Culture, which will not only be an architectural masterpiece, but also a reflection of the specific needs and visions of Brno's cultural scene. This will combine empirical research with applied design, allowing students to explore alternative perspectives on urban development.
This book is an inspiration for reflection. Where do you think is the next place that could come alive with Brno culture? Which story inspires you to explore the city for yourself? "UNDERCOVER" is more than just a book - it is an invitation to explore the life, energy and potential of Brno, which is waiting to be discovered.
The project is held under the auspices of the Mayor of Brno, JUDr. Markéta Vaňková. This project is a follow-up to the implementation of the Santiago and Tbilisi Expert Conferences project, implemented with the financial participation of the European Union through the National Recovery Plan and the Ministry of Culture.
The book launch took place on 15. 01. 2025.
A side event of the book Undercover will be held at Residency Café Kaprál on Thursday, April 10 at 7 pm.
Book Undercover
Brno has its own rhythm, its own tones and its own stories, often hidden away from interest somewhere beneath the surface of the city. Students from the Faculty of Architecture at Brno University of Technology decided to create a thorough exploration of these places. The result is the publication "UNDERCOVER.Creation of the book and the methodology used
The aim was not only to collect data and analyse facts, but above all to capture the emotion, rawness and authenticity of places that live their own lives outside the spotlight of big cultural institutions.
Methodologically, the creation of the book is based on a wide range of empirical approaches whose common denominator is discovery. Students walked the streets, visited galleries, music clubs and improvised cultural venues. They interviewed artists, curators, activists and other creators who are the drivers of Brno's independent cultural scene. The interviews revealed not only the stories and visions of cultural amateurs and professionals, but also the challenges they face in Brno.
On-site observation allowed students to see the pace at which these places live, how they adapt to their inhabitants, and how they resonate with history and the present in the context of the city. All of these perceptions were then subjected to analysis, which helped unravel the complex relationships between the key actors, the places with their unmistakable genius loci, and the artistic community.
The book is divided into thematic chapters, each reflecting a particular aspect of Brno's independent culture. The chapters are structured around specific places that contain stories of people, communities and their creative energy, enthusiasm, improvisation and determination. Each page of this publication is an imaginary stop during an endless wandering through Brno. The cultural map that accompanies the book is both a guide and a challenge - it invites readers to set out to discover these places for themselves and add their own experiences to the mosaic of Brno culture.
The visual value of the book is supported by imaginative graphic design that allows readers to feel the energy and authenticity of each place. In addition, all chapters are accompanied by audio - through Spotify codes, it is possible to listen to music associated with the places and interviews. Thus, the visual and audio identity of the book become key elements in telling the story of Brno's independent culture.
The contribution of the book and further exploration of independent culture in BrnoBrno's independent culture forms an important part of the city's identity and has significant impacts on various areas of urban life. It is the soul of the city that manifests itself as a tireless engine of creativity, innovation and generates new ideas and projects that can also have positive economic and social impacts.
The publication "UNDERCOVER" is a tool for understanding and making visible the importance of the independent cultural scene in the future development of the city. It shows that independent culture not only contributes to the aesthetic and creative value of a city, but also promotes community life and social cohesion. Abandoned buildings, neglected yards or unused spaces gain new life thanks to the energy of individuals and communities who see in them the potential for creativity and self-fulfilment.
The hypothesis that these cultural activities can be key to the revitalization of a city will be further tested in the following semester. Based on this idea, students will develop designs for a Centre for Independent Culture, which will not only be an architectural masterpiece, but also a reflection of the specific needs and visions of Brno's cultural scene. This will combine empirical research with applied design, allowing students to explore alternative perspectives on urban development.
This book is an inspiration for reflection. Where do you think is the next place that could come alive with Brno culture? Which story inspires you to explore the city for yourself? "UNDERCOVER" is more than just a book - it is an invitation to explore the life, energy and potential of Brno, which is waiting to be discovered.
The project is held under the auspices of the Mayor of Brno, JUDr. Markéta Vaňková. This project is a follow-up to the implementation of the Santiago and Tbilisi Expert Conferences project, implemented with the financial participation of the European Union through the National Recovery Plan and the Ministry of Culture.
The book launch took place on 15. 01. 2025.
A side event of the book Undercover will be held at Residency Café Kaprál on Thursday, April 10 at 7 pm.
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