Lviv, a city in western Ukraine, is regarded as one of the main cultural centres of the country and almost 800 years old. For many decades, the historical inner city was neglected. The GIZ-project, ‘Municipal Development and Rehabilitation of the Old City of Lviv’, supports the process of urban renewal. In order to safeguard the architectural heritage, craftsmen are trained in restoration skills. A series of programs have been initiated to raise awareness for sensitive renovations and to activate local residents’ involvement. The GIZ-project works very closely with different municipal departments as well as local NGOs.

Interns will document the unique features of the city and present it in a way that contributes to raising Lviv’s citizens` awareness of their heritage. A second target group for the documentation are citizens of other European countries who often have outdated perceptions of Ukraine. Interns will investigate traces of history and record key instances where historical elements and modern interventions come together. Interviews with citizens, artists and key decision makers should give insights into the local perception of Lviv and its heritage. The outcomes are to be presented publicly, and should contribute to strengthen the local appreciation of Lviv as well as underline the most outstanding characteristics of the city. The GLEN-participants are welcome to create their own ways of documentation, be it in a book, exhibition or documentary film (with regular supervisory consultation).

Interns require good observation and communication skills, creativity and intercultural sensitivity. The team should consist of an artist (photographer or documentary film-maker) and a person experienced in public relations (journalist, publicist or sociologist).  Awareness of professional codes of conduct is necessary. Basic knowledge of the protection of historic monuments, and of societies in transition would be appreciated. The participants should be experienced in carrying out small-scale projects independently.

The scheduled time for the internship is July to September 2012.Training and preparation seminars prior to the internship will be held in English. The tandem will be formed by an Estonian participant and a German/Swiss participant.