Mud y Máquina: Art, Clay and Robotics at Ganslberg

Researchers from TRR 277 are developing a walk-in sculpture with Virginia San Fratello

AMC Researchers from Technical University of Munich, TU Braunschweig and Leibniz Universität Hannover are working with the US artist and MercatorFellow Virginia San Fratello to develop a walk-in sculpture made of clay and natural fibres. ‘Mud y Máquina’ will be created during the first week of October 2026 in a week-long workshop at Ganslberg, the former home and studio of the sculptor Fritz Koenig. The project combines traditional building techniques with digital fabrication.

A woven framework made of natural fibres forms the basis for a surface of clay. The production process utilises both traditional craft techniques, such as weaving and clay application, and mobile robotic systems. The project explores how traditional building methods and the use of local materials can be combined with digital manufacturing methods.

“Mud y Máquina brings together earth, natural fibre, robotics and human hands,” says Virginia San Fratello, describing the approach. The focus is on the question of how machines can support the knowledge and skills of craft-based production rather than replacing them. She sees the project both as a work of art and as a stimulus to reflect on local, resource-efficient and collaborative forms of building.

Opening:
9 October 2026, 5.00 pm
Gut Ganslberg
Ganslberg 24
84032 Altdorf

Further information:
Gut Ganslberg – Landshut City Museums
https://ganslberg.museen-landshut.de