A shortage of jobs, migration, vacant buildings – like some other East German municipalities, Kalbe has been hit hard by structural changes and demographic developments. A cultural initiative aims to break this downward spiral and improve its citizens’ living quality with art and culture. To this end, Kalbe is being converted into an artists’ city. With the help of volunteers, vacant buildings are being transformed into studios and exhibition spaces. Artists receive free board when they set up shop in Kalbe. The objective is to make the city livelier and more attractive for citizens, artists, and tourists alike.