Meissen Art Festival: Peter Hänke clears the stage after 20 years!

Meissen Art Festival: Peter Hänke clears the stage after 20 years!

A remarkable change is coming in Meißen: Peter Hänke, who was the heart and soul of the art festival for over two decades, is retiring. The 77-year-old was recently honored with the city's honorary award for his outstanding achievements and is now making room for new ideas and initiatives. “It was a great time, I’m proud of what we achieved together,” says Hänke, who has organized more than 100 trade shows in the past and had a decisive influence on the development of the art festival. When the Hafenstrasse club asked for help, he was struggling with knee problems, but was ready to throw himself into the action and get the festival off the ground, which began in 2005 with a one-day event.

The new organizer, Hafenstrasse, is planning the art festival on its own and will organize the 19th art festival around the Johanneskirche under the patronage of Mayor Olaf Raschke. This year the event will take place on May 10th and 11th and expects between 20,000 and 25,000 visitors who can look forward to a comprehensive program. More than 140 artists and craftsmen will present their work in Johannespark, including pottery, forged and painted objects, offering insights into traditional manufacturing techniques in many places.

A feast for all senses

The art festival has developed over the years from a small event into a huge festival with up to 160 stalls. It is divided into 15 different exhibition locations, including the Johannes and St. Urban churches as well as the “Atelier Sauke” and the “Das Tor” gallery. Visitors can look forward to a colorful program: music, dance, fashion and magic on two stages, while concerts, readings and even theater performances provide additional entertainment. Children can look forward to the “Children’s Art Mile”, where hands-on activities await them.

A special highlight will be the fairytale lantern and torchlight parade, followed by an impressive fireworks display on Saturday evening at 10:30 p.m. “This is all a joint project with local businesses and the Johanneskirche,” emphasizes Hänke, who plans to enjoy the art festival as a simple visitor in the future. “I will definitely miss the atmosphere and the creativity,” said the long-time event manager.

A look into the future

With the new, fresh wind and close collaboration with the region's artistic talents, the art festival will certainly be even more diverse in the future. “The love for art and craftsmanship remains with us,” says Hänke optimistically. Visitors can look forward to seeing what the new organization will achieve. If you would like to find out more about the festival, see www.kunstfest-meissen.de all information about program items and how to get there.