EnBW x ZKM Dialogue: The Innovation Crisis

The old heart of Europe is facing a crisis of confidence as technological advances in Asia, Arabia, Africa and the Americas gain ever more speed. How do we encourage and cultivate a more innovative and dynamic culture and yet do so with a conscience, that keep advances in technology be inclusive, people-focused and values-driven.

Colette Rückert-Hennen (Board Member, EnBW) and Alistair Hudson (Director, ZKM | Karlsruhe) engage in an interdisciplinary conversation about the role of art and creativity in shaping technological and societal change. 

Key themes of the dialogue include:

Keeping people at the center of innovation and technological development
How can we ensure that technology serves people – not the other way around? Innovation should be guided by the goal of improving human well-being and fulfillment. 

The Intersection of Art and Innovation
Artistic approaches can inspire bold thinking and open new perspectives, to compliment and expand on the ‘engineers mindset’ - exemplified by the history of the computer. 

The Importance of Diversity in Driving Success and Innovation
Diversity – especially cognitive and cultural – drives better outcomes. Inclusive innovation ensures a broader range of ideas, leading to more effective and future-ready solutions.

The Potential for AI to Augment Human Creativity
AI can enhance creative processes by taking over repetitive tasks, allowing humans to focus on imagination, design, and high-value thinking. The future lies in collaboration between human and machine.

Creative Learning and Collaboration
As traditional education models fall short, there’s a growing need for learning through making, doing, and collaborating. Innovation thrives where disciplines meet – and where learning is hands-on and shared.

This dialogue offers inspiration for how businesses, cultural institutions, and educators can collectively shape a future that works in the interests of people, the economy and our ecosystem.