The core of Denk- und Produktionsort Libken is a four-storey residential building with 24 apartments on the edge of the 80-inhabitant village of Böckenberg in the Uckermark. Like many similar buildings, the building was doomed to demolition due to vacancy. Since 2014, it has been gradually renovated in various constellations and with the help of friends and supporters.

Today, Libken is a residency that offers space to people and their projects in areas such as art, culture, activism, movement and science. Both individuals and groups of up to around 40 people can rent apartments of various sizes and layouts in Libken and use the workspaces and spacious grounds.

Alongside the running of the residency, we work with artists and cultural practitioners to put on programs ranging from workshops and exhibitions to film screenings, readings, symposia and festivals. Libken also grants room scholarships as and when possible. In our activities, cooperation within the region and beyond is also important to us.

Libken is an open place where people from diverse backgrounds and with different experiences come together. Libken enables withdrawal and concentration, but also exchange, discussions and experimenting with different ways of working and living. The project thrives on the impulses that both its operators as well as long-term and short-term collaborators and guests bring with them. Libken is therefore in constant flux and it relies on the cooperation of each individual to cultivate a respectful and pleasant atmosphere.

The residency is currently organized by a team of four. Some of the work carried out by the team is paid, but much of it is also voluntary. Libken operates as a non-profit association. Our resources and services are limited. In 2024, we introduced the role of a rotating guest care responsible. You will find a contact of this person on the information boards in the middle staircase. In case of conflicts that you cannot resolve yourself, this person can be approached for support and, if necessary, put you in touch with prefossional counseling services.

Libken and its operators are open to constructive and respectful criticism. We work on becoming ever more aware of power structures and are committed to working in a way that is inclusive and sensitive to discrimination. As a team of white and predominantly able-bodied people, we recognize that an enjoyable stay in residence for BIPOC, LGTBIQ+ and people with disabilities may depend on requirements that Libken does not, does not yet or can only partially meet. If you would like to do so, you are welcome to provide relevant information that is important to you in terms of self-description/self-positioning before your visit, or contact us at any time.

Lib·ken, english (outdated) for house, cottage, accomodation