An international art project by artist Mats Staub, co-produced by We Live Here and Lancaster Arts.
(Find out more about the artist and producers here)
X&Z brings together young people aged 14–16 and adults aged 40–60 for a series of filmed conversations about life, change and the future.
Participants are paired across generations and invited into a one-to-one conversation that begins with simple questions: What mattered to you at my age? What do you hope the world will be like when I’m your age? What are you certain about – and what are you unsure of? The same two people meet once a year over four years, allowing those conversations to return again and again, and giving two people who might never otherwise meet the chance to get to know one another slowly and as equals.
Why take part?
Join an international artwork (taking place in Cairo, Berlin, Bern, Berlin and Frankfurt) that will be shown in 2030. Take part in a safe, supported project for young people and adults to talk, listen and reflect together.
What kind of project is this?
X&Z is a long-term, conversation-based art project that brings together people from different generations for one filmed conversation each year over four years. It is about listening rather than debate, and reflection rather than performance.
Who is it for?
We are inviting young people aged 14–16 and adults aged 40–60 living in or around Lancaster. No art or performance experience is needed.
What happens when you take part?
Participants meet once a year for a guided, one-to-one conversation lasting around two hours, filmed in a supported and carefully structured setting. There is nothing to prepare in advance and no expectation to perform.
Is it safe and supported?
Yes. All recording takes place in a professionally managed space, with a trained project team present. Safeguarding is central to the project, and full information is provided before applying.
Where will this lead?
The final artwork will be presented publicly in 2030 at Lancaster Arts and at venues internationally.
How do I apply?
Please read the relevant participant information before applying.
Aged 40–60 participant information (LINK)
Aged 14–16 participant information (LINK)
Parents, carers, schools and clubs – participant information (LINK)
Safeguarding and Recording Overview
Application form: (LINK: googleform)
If you’d like to apply in a different way – via a video submission, for example, just email us and we can discuss!
Deadline: 2 March 2026
Anything else I should know?
The first recording sessions take place on 21 or 22 March 2026. Travel costs are covered and light refreshments are provided. If a participant moves away from Lancaster in future years, it will still be possible to take part remotely.
Questions?
Get in touch at producers@lancasterarts.org – and if this makes you think of someone else who might enjoy taking part, please feel free to pass it on.
