A special surprise prepared for the inauguration of the 2nd BAUHAUS4EU Forum was the symbolic opening of the BAUHAUS4EU Green Campus at the University of Economics in Katowice, together with the unveiling of a mural created especially for this space.

The opening ceremony took place on 23 June 2026 and was led by Professor Celina Olszak, Rector of the University of Economics in Katowice. She was joined by representatives of the city and regional authorities, Rectors and senior representatives of the nine BAUHAUS4EU partner universities, students, members of the academic community and regional partners.

More than 300 guests from Albania, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Sweden and Poland participated in the event.

A space inspired by BAUHAUS4EU values

The Green Campus reflects the main principles underlying BAUHAUS4EU and the New European Bauhaus: sustainability, inclusion and beauty.

Like the Alliance itself, the space was created with respect for the natural environment and with the use of durable, environmentally responsible materials designed to stand the test of time.

The pathways were constructed using a special permeable mineral-epoxy surface that allows rainwater to pass through naturally. This helps improve water retention and reduce surface runoff.

The Green Campus is therefore not only a place where members of the University community can enjoy nature, meet and spend time together. It is also a practical example of how sustainability, innovation and aesthetics can work hand in hand.

In the future, the space will also accommodate the Laboratory of Economic Climate Education, developed as part of the Silesian Climate Centre project. The laboratory will support educational demonstrations and student activities related to renewable energy, climate adaptation and biodiversity.

A mural telling the story of transformation
As you entered the Green Campus, you have noticed the mural created especially for this space.

Inspired by the vision and values of BAUHAUS4EU, it reflects the Alliance’s core principles: resilience, beauty, inclusiveness, and sustainable development. Rather than presenting these ideas separately, the mural brings them together as parts of one coherent story.

At its centre is the windmill - the dominant visual motif and an important element of the BAUHAUS4EU logo. It symbolizes the wind and therefore change, youth, freshness, and beauty. At the same time, it represents the energy and transformation that drive the development of regions.

The mural unfolds in two distinct stages. The first, located in the tunnel, presents a dynamic and rhythmic journey. Among the visual elements are portraits of young people - students who appear focused and self-aware, embodying the calm confidence that accompanies meaningful change. As visitors move through the tunnel, they experience a transition in light, colour and atmosphere, reflecting the very essence of transformation.

Upon emerging into the Green Campus, the composition opens up to reveal the figure of a woman symbolising Europe - an expression of culture, beauty and civilisation. Her presence brings balance and harmony to the mural and reminds us that regional transformation is part of a much broader European journey.

The mural was created by Mr Wojciech Walczyk, a recognised local artist whose work can be found throughout Katowice. The creative process itself reflected the spirit of BAUHAUS4EU. Over many months, we met, exchanged ideas and worked together to find a symbolic way of capturing the very soul of the Alliance and translating it into a visual language.

Art that supports cleaner air

The mural combines visual art with environmental responsibility.

It was created using innovative photocatalytic anti-smog paints. When exposed to light, these coatings help neutralise air pollutants and eliminate microorganisms, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.

The artwork is also accessible and free from unnecessary perceptual or social barriers. It performs an informative and inspiring function while remaining visually coherent with the surrounding architecture and greenery.

A symbol taken back to every partner university

The mural also inspired the creation of the BAUHAUS4EU commemorative sculpture, designed and produced by Silesian artist Radosław Jakubczyk, owner of GOP Automatyka Sp. z o.o.

The windmill-shaped sculptures combine technology, design and environmental responsibility. Their form reflects the principles of the New European Bauhaus by bringing together functionality, beauty and care for the environment.

Durable materials were used in their production, while the blades were covered with photocatalytic paint, reinforcing the environmental message behind the design.

Each of the ten Rectors received a sculpture to take back to their home university. The artworks will serve both as lasting reminders of the 2nd BAUHAUS4EU Forum in Katowice and as symbols of the shared future of the growing Alliance and its European University community.

The Green Campus, mural and commemorative sculptures together demonstrate how art, education, technology and sustainability can become part of one coherent vision - a vision rooted locally in Katowice and Silesia, while contributing to a broader European process of transformation.

Click the link to see the photo gallery and read the news tied to the event.