The Stein mayor shares his views, according to the statement.
Faber-Castell Academy to Close in Stein, Germany
The Faber-Castell Academy, a significant contributor to the cultural identity of Stein for over three decades, is set to close its doors at the end of 2026. The academy's workshop and training space, spanning approximately 2,500 square meters, is located within an early 20th-century industrial ensemble on the banks of the Rednitz river, next to the "Alte Mine."
The Faber-Castell Academy has been instrumental in nurturing young talents, attracting students from all over Germany and German-speaking neighboring countries. Its closure is a great loss for Stein, the district of Fürth, and the entire creative educational landscape.
The academy's impact on Stein's cultural life has been substantial. Regular semester exhibitions, the international exhibition "Kunstzone," and the youth art school have significantly enriched the town's cultural landscape. The academy's formats have also contributed to Stein's cultural identity beyond the academy's operations.
Kurt Krömer, Stein's first mayor, has expressed regret about the decision to close the Faber-Castell Academy. He has praised the academy for its positive impact on Stein's cultural identity and thanked Prof. Uli Rothfuss and the entire academy team for their trusting cooperation over the years.
Discussions between the city of Stein and the Faber-Castell house are ongoing regarding the use of the academy's workshop and training space following its closure. As of now, no specific plans or potential uses for the facilities have been publicly announced.
The Faber-Castell Academy's closure marks the end of an era for Stein. However, the town's status as a university town, introduced with the introduction of a master's program at the academy, remains intact.
[1] Sources: Local news reports, Faber-Castell Academy official website.
The closure of the Faber-Castell Academy, a hub for nurturing creative talents, is a significant loss for the education-and-self-development sector in Stein, Germany. The academy's workshop and training space, known for fostering young artists, has withstood for over three decades, enriching the town's cultural identity and providing valuable opportunities for growth.
