X&Z is an exciting new international art project by artist Mats Staub, that will take place in Lancaster once a year until 2030 and is co-produced by We Live Here and Lancaster Arts.
This is an opportunity for you to join and be a part of an artwork which is also taking place in Cairo, Berlin, Bern, and Frankfurt. 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. Take part in a safe, supported project for young people and adults to talk, listen and reflect together.
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.
(Find out more about the artist and producers here)
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.
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.
